As Ibadanland prepares to celebrate, on Friday, the coronation of its 44th Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, a respected son of the soil and community advocate, Chief Laja Akintayo, has charged the new monarch to lead with unity, vision and inclusiveness.

Speaking to newsmen, Chief Akintayo, who hails from the Ogundipe compound in Itutaba, commended Oba Ladoja’s character and called for a reign anchored in progress, youth empowerment and cultural preservation.

“Oba Ladoja embodies the true Ibadan spirit: courageous, progressive, yet deeply rooted in our traditions. His political acumen, philanthropy and humility have made him a unifying figure. He is a bridge between modern governance and cultural heritage,” the entrepreneur and public servant said.

A former President of the Ibadan Descendants’ Union (IDU), USA, Dallas-Fort Worth chapter, and National Publicity Secretary of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Akintayo has received various honours, including the Most Prominent Ibadan Indigene (MPII) award in 2024 and the chieftaincy title of Jagunmolu Apesinola of Ibadanland in 2023, bestowed by the late Oba Lekan Balogun.

He also holds an honourary doctorate in Christian Leadership and Business from Highway Global Christian University, USA.

Akintayo expressed strong hopes that the reign of Oba Ladoja would mark a turning point for Ibadan.

“I expect His Imperial Majesty to foster unity, champion developmental initiatives and strengthen our cultural values. His reign should attract investments, enhance education, empower our youths and preserve the dignity of our traditions,” he noted.

Reiterating the long-standing call for the creation of Ibadan State, he urged the monarch to lend his influential voice to the cause.

“This cause is overdue. We need a royal voice that can rally stakeholders and inspire renewed momentum toward this goal,” Akintayo said.

He also encouraged Oba Ladoja to remain spiritually guided and accessible to all segments of society.

“Maintain an open door to elders, chiefs, youths and women. Blend wisdom with inclusivity and fairness. Above all, let God guide your decisions. Divine direction has always been the bedrock of enduring leadership.”

To the youth, he offered this counsel: “Stay rooted in integrity and diligence. Embrace education and innovation. Respect traditions, but never stop dreaming. As Proverbs 22:29 says, ‘Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings.’”

Akintayo concluded by praying for a reign filled with peace, unity and lasting development, expressing optimism that Oba Ladoja’s rule would reignite pride among all Ibadan sons and daughters worldwide.