Like a man who foresaw the future, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has silenced critics through massive ongoing road rehabilitation and infrastructure development across Ibadan and beyond. Over the past six years, his administration has reshaped Oyo State’s landscape, boosting connectivity and opening new horizons.
One of the Governor’s most visionary projects is the upgrade of Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, Ibadan. The foundation for a new international terminal has been laid, alongside improvements in runway, lighting, and fire safety. Once completed, the airport will handle over one million passengers annually, a tenfold increase from its present capacity. Within months, Ibadan is expected to welcome international flights, directly connecting Oyo and neighboring states to the world.
This bold vision was put to the test during the historic coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja. In preparation for the event, the upgraded Ibadan Airport was reopened, allowing the Presidential fleet to land seamlessly. Without this, President Bola Tinubu and dignitaries would likely have landed in Lagos, facing long, inconvenient travel by road. Makinde’s foresight ensured smooth logistics, underscoring the importance of infrastructure in preserving Ibadan’s pride.
Equally vital was the network of newly rehabilitated roads, especially those leading to Mapo Hall — the coronation’s iconic venue. The seamless movement of dignitaries, convoys, and residents testified to Makinde’s deliberate planning. Hosting an event of such global attention — covered by BBC and other international outlets — would have been nearly impossible without these infrastructural strides.
From Iwo Road to Ring Road, Mokola to Bodija, the city of Ibadan was alive with color and pride. Billboards with Oba Ladoja’s portraits lined the streets, convoys filled the air with excitement, while traffic and security management ensured order. The Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, personally inspected Mapo Hall a day prior, reflecting the administration’s commitment to excellence.
The coronation itself was a spectacle. From the unveiling of Oba Ladoja’s statue to traditional performances, the arrival of the president, and the grand presentation of the staff of office, Ibadan witnessed history in motion. The monarch’s majestic entrance in a white Rolls Royce gifted by Chief Kola Karim, his regal attire, and the family’s elegant unity elevated the ceremony to one of the most memorable in Ibadan’s history.
While President Tinubu congratulated Ibadan people and the new monarch, many Nigerians, home and abroad, commended Governor Makinde for his role in making the occasion grand. Social media buzzed with praise for his leadership, particularly his respect for Ibadan’s traditional institution and his ability to harmonize its succession process without rancor.
Governor Makinde himself reaffirmed the sanctity of the Olubadan system, declaring challenges of the past resolved and praying for peace and prosperity under Oba Ladoja’s reign. His words, matched by his actions, marked the beginning of a new era for Ibadan.
This coronation was not just about culture and tradition; it was about vision and governance. The newly upgraded airport, the inner roads, and the citywide facelift reflected Makinde’s determination to place Ibadan on the global stage. Guests from across Nigeria and beyond, including opposition leaders, attended — a silent yet powerful acknowledgement of his achievements.
Like no other coronation in Ibadan’s history, this one was extraordinary — and Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership was at the heart of it. For transforming infrastructure, ensuring seamless logistics, and projecting Ibadan as a hub of culture and international relevance, he truly deserves a Golden Buzzer.
— Oyedeji Ahmed (LMP), SA Public Affairs
