The 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on Sunday attended a thanksgiving service in his honour at the Ascension of Christ Catholic Church, Bodija, Ibadan, his first public appearance since ascending the throne.
While addressing the congregation, Oba Ladoja vowed to dedicate his reign to economic revitalisation, youth empowerment, and the promotion of religious harmony across Ibadanland and Oyo State as a whole.
“The status of Olubadan is not about the wearing of beads but ensuring the socio-economic advancement of our town. To achieve this feat, I will collaborate with government at all levels to ensure Ibadan and Oyo State maintain their pace-setter status,” the monarch declared.
He assured local and foreign investors of a welcoming business environment, describing Ibadan as a “fertile land for investment and economic growth.” He further pledged to revive moribund industries, create jobs for young people, and drive inclusive development.
Reaffirming Ibadan’s culture of interfaith tolerance, Oba Ladoja said, “We have never had a record of religious crisis in Ibadan because each family here reflects a blend of religious faiths. I am now the king of all religious groups in Ibadan.”
Delivering his goodwill message, the Catholic Archbishop of Ibadan, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Abegunrin, described the Olubadan’s enthronement as “a divine mandate” and commended him for beginning his reign with thanksgiving, calling it a mark of humility and sacred duty.
“Oba Ladoja has set forth a shining example of interfaith goodwill and mutual respect which will long endure as a legacy of his reign,” Archbishop Abegunrin noted, pledging the Church’s support and prayers.
The event drew members of the Olubadan-in-Council, the monarch’s family, traditional titleholders including Iyalodes, and a large gathering of well-wishers.
