Growth of Ibadanland, my foremost task – Olubadan

The newly installed Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja Arusa I, has declared that the growth and development of Ibadan remain his top priority as he begins his reign.

The monarch stated this on Sunday during his first public appearance at a thanksgiving service held in his honour at the Ascension of Christ Catholic Church, Bodija, Ibadan.

Oba Ladoja, who emphasised that the Olubadan stool was not about beads and regalia, said his reign would focus on driving socio-economic progress, strengthening unity, and attracting investment into Ibadanland and Oyo State.

He said, “The major assignment before me as Olubadan of Ibadanland is the growth of Ibadanland. The status of Olubadan is not about wearing beads, but ensuring the all-round development of the town.

“To achieve this feat, I will collaborate with the government at all levels to ensure that Ibadan and Oyo State at large maintain their pace-setter status. We are all governing Ibadan. I am just the coordinator. You people are the small Olubadans, I am the big Olubadan. Ibadan will be greater by God’s grace and with your support.”

The Olubadan noted that Ibadan had no history of religious crisis because of its tradition of interwoven religious harmony, promising to remain a unifying figure across faiths.

He also described the city as fertile ground for investment and urged both local and foreign investors to take advantage of the conducive business environment, while pledging to revive moribund businesses and create opportunities for young people.

Speaking at the service, the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin, described the monarch’s enthronement as an act of divine providence, adding that his longevity was a crown of grace.

“Ladoja has set forth a shining example of interfaith goodwill and mutual respect, which will long endure as a legacy of his reign,” Abegunrin said, pledging the church’s continued prayers and support.

The thanksgiving service was attended by members of the Olubadan-in-Council, the monarch’s family, Iyalodes and well-wishers.

Oba Ladoja, a former Oyo State governor and senator, was installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on September 26, 2025, following the death of his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, in July. His ascension was approved by Governor Seyi Makinde in August after his nomination by the Olubadan-in-Council.