In a bold move to restore Ibadan’s economic vibrancy and urban renewal, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has inaugurated a high-powered economic team dedicated to driving investment and development across the ancient city.
The inauguration ceremony took place today at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan, with members of the Olubadan-in-Council in attendance.
Oba Ladoja appointed the Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland and two-time Minister of the Federal Republic, Chief (Mrs.) Onikepo Akande, as Chairman of the committee, while Professor Dapo Afolabi, a former Head of Service of the Federation, was named Co-Chairman.
Other distinguished members include Chief Adelodun Olaiya, Dr. Kazeem Sola Adeduntan (former Group Managing Director, First Bank of Nigeria), Chief Dotun Sanusi (Bada Olubadan-Designate), Chief Kola Karim (Agbaoye of Ibadanland), and Chief Taofeek Adegboyega Adegoke (Aregbe Omo Balogun).
The former Oyo State Head of Service, Chief Tajudeen Aremu, will serve as the Secretary of the committee, alongside other notable members such as Alhaji Remi Bello (former President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry), Chief Yomi Idowu (Agbaakin Atayese of Ibadanland), Chief Owolabi Oladejo (media promoter), and Pastor Dr. Bayo Olugbemi (former President and Chairman, Governing Council, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, CIBN).
Speaking at the inauguration, Oba Ladoja emphasized the need to revive Ibadan’s industrial legacy:
“People keep asking, where is Leyland? Where is Exide Battery? Where is Wire and Cable? Where is Isoglass? Where is Ferodo? Since my appointment was approved in July, we have been exploring how these companies disappeared — and more importantly, how we can revive such industries to create employment opportunities for our teeming youths.”
The revered monarch noted that members of the committee were carefully selected based on their proven records as business leaders, boardroom icons, and accomplished entrepreneurs, whose expertise will help reposition Ibadan as a major economic hub.
Responding on behalf of the committee, Chief Tajudeen Aremu pledged their commitment to fulfilling the vision of the Olubadan and his council, assuring that the team would justify the confidence reposed in them.
