Meet 90-year-old Raimi Kobomoje, who left cocoa business for cap-making
Starting his craft in 1973 after leaving the cocoa trade, Kobomoje has made name for himself in this traditional art form, which he says has deep roots in Ibadan.
By Ayo Adams
Raimi Kobomoje, a 90-year-old veteran capmaker based Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, has become a living testament to the history and tradition of cap-making in the city.
Starting his craft in 1973 after leaving the cocoa trade, Kobomoje has made name for himself in this traditional art form, which he says has deep roots in Ibadan.
“I started making caps in 1973 in my father’s area at Kobomoje,” Raimi recalled in his interview with media personality, Ayo Adams, reflecting on his early days in the business.
The 90-year-old narrated that the craft had been in existence long before he was born.
“Cap-making started from Aniso’s compound, Gege in Ibadan. We grew up to see them practice it as an art in that area. It expanded from there to other parts of the world,” he explained, speaking on the rich history of the profession.
When asked about what inspired him to transition from cocoa trading to cap-making, Raimi shared that the cocoa business had become less profitable over time.
Spotting the growing demand for traditional caps, he saw an opportunity. “In a day, I can make up to N100,000 from making caps,” he said.
“People come from as far as Abuja to buy the caps.”
While discussing the popular belief that the direction in which a man bends his cap signifies his marital status, Kobomoje dismissed it as a myth.
“Bending your cap to any direction is your style, it doesn’t have any marital meaning,” he clarified.
Raimi Kobomoje’s journey is a story of adaptability, passion, and an enduring connection to tradition. His work continues to preserve an important cultural heritage for future generations.
