By Iyabo Adebisi/Adebukola Aluko
Topmost on the agenda of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja is to make Ibadan city economically viable for job creation and meaningful development.
To this end, the monarch is planning to launch a multi billion Naira Economic Development Programme for the ancient city soon .
Oba Ladoja made this known in Ibadan after being crowned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan.
The Monarch said such would help in reviving moribund industries in the ancient city.
Oba Ladoja gave assurance of peaceful co existence among the people to make the vision a reality.
He also urged President Bola Tinubu to support the creation of Ibadan State before May 2027, believing such would fast-track development in the area.
At the ceremony, President Bola Tinubu rekindled the hope of Nigerians on the state of the economy, saying “moment of hope and prosperity has arrived”
The President emphasized that Nigerians deserved to be commended for their perseverance as the nation navigates through a new economic turn of progress.
He prayed that the new Olubadan would continue to be relevant in the country’s democracy.
Recalling his relationship with Oba Ladoja during democratic struggle, in the Senate and his impeachment saga as governor of Oyo state, President Tinubu described the monarch as a reliable personality.
After presenting the staff of office to Oba Ladoja, the Oyo state governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde prayed for the successful reign of the monarch emphasizing that all challenges associated with Ibadan traditional institution is over.
Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, was born on 25 September 1944 in Gambari village near Ogbomoso, Oyo State, to Pa Yunusa Olayiwola and Madam Halimat Sadia Ladoja. His family has its ancestral homestead in Arusa compound, Isale Osi, Ibadan.
The epoch making event had in attendance distinguished personalities from all walks of life, including state governors, lawmakers, captains of industrial and politicians across party divides.
Highlight of the ceremony was a cultural display to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Ibadan.
