Professor Toyin Falola, a renowned historian and African Studies scholar, has said the installation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland could usher in a new era of development for the city.
Falola, who is the Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair in the Humanities at the University of Texas, made the remarks during the Olubadan Coronation Lecture at the University of Ibadan’s International Conference Centre. The lecture, titled “Ibadan in History: Issues in Tradition and Modernity”, drew traditional rulers, academics, and civic leaders.
He said Ladoja’s experience as a former governor, senator, and entrepreneur equips him to modernise Ibadan while preserving its cultural heritage. “The city of Ibadan stands at a crossroads between preserving its deep-rooted traditions and embracing necessary reforms. Oba Ladoja is well-suited to bridge that gap,” Falola said.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, also praised Ladoja’s ascension, predicting that his reign would foster unity, stability, and growth. Chief Bayo Oyero, chairman of the coronation committee, described the lecture as a historic first, blending traditional leadership with intellectual engagement.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo extended early congratulations to Ladoja, wishing him a long and prosperous reign. Preparations are underway for the official coronation, which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to attend at the recently upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, now meeting international standards.
