Olubadan Coronation: Committee Unveils Week-Long Activities for Ladoja’s Installation

The Inaugural Committee for the Coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has finalized a grand one-week program of activities leading to the historic event set for Friday, September 26, 2025. Chaired by Chief Bayo Oyero, former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), the committee held its first meeting recently in Ibadan, with key government officials and traditional leaders present to deliberate and finalize plans.

The coronation week will officially commence on Monday, September 22, with an Interdenominational service to be held at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, organized by the CCII. The following day, Tuesday, September 23, will feature a vibrant Cultural Day jointly promoted by the CCII and the Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, showcasing the rich heritage of Ibadanland. Midweek on Wednesday, September 24, a solemn Coronation Lecture will be delivered by internationally renowned historian, Professor Toyin Falola, underscoring the historical and cultural significance of the Olubadan institution.

Thursday, September 25, will offer a spiritually uplifting Mega Praise Worship session at the Civic Centre in Idi Ape, uniting attendees in praise and thanksgiving in anticipation of the grand event. The crowning glory will occur on Friday, September 26, at the iconic Mapo Hall in Ibadan, where Oba Rashidi Ladoja will be officially installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

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Participants at the inaugural meeting included prominent representatives from the Olubadan’s council such as the Asipa Olubadan designate, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, notable chiefs like Nureni Adisa, and Chief Adeola Oloko, the Olubadan’s media aide. Also in attendance were commissioners for Culture and Tourism, Women Affairs, and Information, local government chairpersons representing the 11 local councils of Ibadanland, members of the Oyo State House of Assembly, and key officials from the Governor’s office and relevant ministries.

Oba Rashidi Ladoja, a distinguished businessman, former governor of Oyo State, and long-standing statesman, succeeds the late Oba Ige Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who passed away earlier this year. His nomination received the approval of Governor Seyi Makinde, and the week-long celebrations are expected to attract dignitaries, traditional rulers, cultural enthusiasts, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and beyond.

This coronation marks a significant moment in Ibadan’s history, promising a splendid blend of cultural heritage, spiritual observances, and scholarly discourse in honor of one of Yoruba land’s most revered traditional thrones.