Ibadan, Oyo State — A new chapter has begun in the ancient city of Ibadan as former governor of Oyo State, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, was crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, pledging to redefine traditional leadership as a platform for service, development, and unity.
The historic coronation ceremony, held on Friday amid pomp and cultural grandeur, saw Governor Seyi Makinde officially present the staff of office to the new monarch in the presence of dignitaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, signaling the dawn of a new era for the city.
In his inaugural address, Oba Ladoja spoke passionately about the responsibilities of modern-day monarchs, stressing that their roles extend far beyond the trappings of royalty.
“Our role as kings is not just to wear royal beads and acquire women, but to serve the people,” he declared. “With my ascension to the throne, there shall be a new dawn in Ibadanland. I will devote my life to serving the people diligently.”
The new Olubadan paid tribute to the resilience and unity of the Ibadan people, recalling how, despite predictions of disunity a year earlier, the city had come together to uphold its traditions and install its new leader peacefully.
“This staff of office is a source of joy to all sons and daughters of Ibadan. Some thought Ibadan would scatter, but we have shown the world that Ibadan knows how to resolve its matters. I thank the Olubadan-in-Council — without their support, I would not be here,” he said.
Oba Ladoja outlined ambitious plans for his reign, including urban renewal projects aimed at transforming decaying communities, a multi-billion-naira economic development programme to revive moribund industries, and job creation initiatives for the city’s youth. He also urged President Tinubu to fulfill the longstanding demand for the creation of Ibadan State from the present Oyo State before May 2027.
“Ibadan is blessed with resourceful people. Our forefathers made visionary decisions in hosting federal institutions and private enterprises. It is now time for these institutions to give back to the people,” he added.
Governor Seyi Makinde, while presenting the staff of office, praised Oba Ladoja as a symbol of continuity and progress, assuring him of the state government’s support in promoting peace and development.
“All challenges associated with the Ibadan traditional institution are now behind us. Today’s coronation shows that our tradition and succession process are intact,” Makinde said. “The excitement across the city proves the people’s desire to see the Olubadan tradition preserved. This reign will usher in peace, growth, and prosperity.”
The governor also celebrated a milestone achieved on the coronation day, announcing that President Tinubu’s arrival at the newly upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport marked the first landing of a wide-bodied aircraft in Ibadan, a development he described as a harbinger of the positive changes to come under Oba Ladoja’s reign.
The new Olubadan’s journey to the throne began in 1993 as Mogaji, and he now assumes leadership of one of Nigeria’s most influential traditional councils. With his emphasis on service over symbolism, Oba Ladoja’s reign promises to usher Ibadan into a new era of renewed heritage, socio-economic transformation, and unity.
