The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has expressed optimism that Ibadan will experience significant economic transformation, saying the city’s long-awaited turnaround is only a matter of time.
This was contained in a press release issued on Monday by the Media Aide to the Olubadan, Chief Adeola Oloko, following the signing of an economic blueprint at the Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan.
The document was developed by the Olubadan Economic and Investment Committee, chaired by two former federal officials, Chief Mrs Onikepo Akande and Professor Dapo Afolabi, a former Head of Service of the Federation.
Oba Ladoja described the document as a comprehensive economic framework designed to guide Ibadan’s development across critical sectors, including agriculture, mining, tourism, security and industry.
While appreciating the committee members for their dedication over the past year, the monarch expressed confidence that the blueprint would provide a foundation for unlocking the city’s economic potential.
He maintained that with a clear development framework in place, Ibadan could achieve significant progress across different sectors.
Earlier, the committee chairperson, Chief Mrs Onikepo Akande, expressed appreciation to the Olubadan for the opportunity to serve, while commending his initiative in establishing the committee.
The co-chairman, Professor Dapo Afolabi, also praised members for contributing their time, resources and expertise towards producing the economic charter.
Presenting the document, Ambassador Akinremi Bolaji said the submission marked the beginning of a larger task, stressing the need for collective commitment to translate the proposals into tangible development.
Among the traditional rulers present at the ceremony were the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola; Otun Balogun, Oba Kolawole Adegbola; Osi Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi; and Osi Balogun, Oba Abiodun Azeez Agagagugu.
Other members of the Olubadan-in-Council in attendance included Asipa Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade; Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Adebayo Akande; and Ekarun Balogun, High Chief Adeniran.
The Minister of Power, Mogaji Joseph Tegbe, was also among those who witnessed the presentation, alongside members of the Olubadan Economic and Investment Committee.
