The 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on Sunday pledged to focus his reign on economic revitalisation, youth empowerment, and fostering religious harmony across Ibadanland and Oyo State.
Oba Ladoja made this known during a thanksgiving service held in his honour at the Ascension of Christ Catholic Church, Bodija, Ibadan — his first public outing since ascending the throne.
Addressing the congregation, the revered monarch assured both local and foreign investors of an enabling business environment in Ibadan, describing the city as a “fertile land for investment and economic growth.”
He emphasised the urgency of reviving moribund industries, boosting youth employment, and promoting inclusive development, noting that the stool of the Olubadan is not about “beads or status,” but about facilitating the all-round progress of Ibadanland.
“The major assignment before me as Olubadan of Ibadanland is the growth of Ibadanland. The status of Olubadan is not about the wearing of beads but ensuring the socio-economic advancement of our town. To achieve this feat, I will collaborate with the government at all levels to ensure Ibadan and Oyo State maintain their pace-setter status,” he declared.
The monarch underscored the inclusive nature of Ibadan’s traditional leadership, stating, “We are all governing Ibadan. I am just the coordinator. You are the small Olubadans, and I am the big Olubadan.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to religious tolerance, highlighting Ibadan’s longstanding tradition of peaceful interfaith relations. “We have never had a record of religious crisis in Ibadan because each family here reflects a blend of religious faiths. I am now the king of all religious groups in Ibadan,” he said.
In his congratulatory message, the Catholic Archbishop of Ibadan, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Abegunrin, described Oba Ladoja’s enthronement as “a divine mandate,” and a manifestation of God’s providence.
He lauded the monarch for beginning his reign with thanksgiving, calling it a symbol of humility and a clear indication of his readiness to lead with a sense of sacred duty.
“Oba Ladoja has set forth a shining example of interfaith goodwill and mutual respect which will long endure as a legacy of his reign,” the Archbishop stated.
He assured the monarch of the continued support and prayers of the Church, pledging cooperation in efforts to promote justice, peace, and the common good.
The service was attended by members of the Olubadan-in-Council, the monarch’s family, traditional titleholders including Iyalodes, and a host of well-wishers.
