The newly crowned 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has pledged to create an enabling environment for both local and foreign investors as he unveiled his socio-economic vision for Ibadanland.
Speaking during a thanksgiving service held in his honour at the Ascension of Christ Catholic Church, Bodija, Ibadan, Oba Ladoja emphasized the need to revive moribund businesses and tackle youth unemployment as part of his mission to boost the economy of Ibadan and Oyo State at large.
The monarch stressed that his reign was not about status or regalia but about driving development and prosperity for the people.
“The major assignment before me as Olubadan of Ibadanland is the growth of Ibadanland,” he said. “The throne is not about wearing beads, but ensuring the all-round growth of the town. I will work with governments at all levels to maintain Ibadan’s pace-setter status.”
Oba Ladoja further described Ibadan as a fertile land for investment and expressed confidence that, with unity and divine support, the city would attain greater heights. He also lauded the interfaith harmony in Ibadan, noting that every family comprises members of diverse religious groups, which has helped the city avoid sectarian crises.
In his congratulatory message, the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan, Most Rev Dr Gabriel Abegunrin, hailed the monarch’s enthronement as an act of divine providence, describing it as a testament to God’s grace, strength, and wisdom. He commended Oba Ladoja for beginning his reign with thanksgiving, calling it a mark of humility and a reflection of his commitment to peace and unity.
“Oba Ladoja has set forth a shining example of interfaith goodwill and mutual respect which will endure as a legacy of his reign,” Abegunrin said, pledging the support and prayers of the Christian community for the monarch.
The service was attended by members of the Olubadan-in-Council, the royal family, Iyalodes, and well-wishers.
