President Bola Tinubu will join other eminent Nigerians on Friday in Ibadan to celebrate the coronation of a former governor of Oyo State, and ex-Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan.
The coronation program, released at a press conference on Saturday, by Chief Bayo Oyero, Chairman of the Planning and Organizing Committee, showed that the week-long activities will reflect the inclusive and rich cultural heritage of Ibadan.
The ancient city of Ibadan will witness history on Friday, September 26, 2025, as former governor of Oyo State and statesman, ascends the throne of his forefathers.
According to the details of the event holding at the historic Mapo Hall grounds, “The coronation ceremony will be the culmination of a week-long series of events, beginning on Monday, September 22.
Details are:
- Tuesday, September 23: Cultural fiesta will be held at Olubadan Stadium, Iyaganku, showcasing Ibadan traditions, music, and arts;
- Wednesday, September 24: Coronation lecture by world-renowned scholar, Prof. Toyin Falola, at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan;
- Thursday, September 25, will witness a mega praise and worship concert at Civic Centre, Idi-Ape, coinciding with Oba Ladoja’s 81st birthday celebration;
- Friday, September 26, the grand coronation ceremony will hold at Mapo Hall grounds.
- Sunday, September 28, a Thanksgiving service will be held at Catholic Cathedral, Oke Padre, Ibadan, and the
- Friday, October 3 Special Jumat service at Ojaba Central Mosque will climax the weeklong event.
Oyero said, “We have planned inter-religious prayers, a cultural fiesta, a coronation lecture, and a thanksgiving service. This is not just a traditional rite but a reaffirmation of our unique and timeless chieftaincy system.”
He described the ascension of Oba Ladoja as “a journey of many years, guided by the wisdom of our ancestors,” noting that the former governor’s background as a senator, engineer, businessman, and administrator uniquely positions him to lead Ibadan into “a new era of progress, peace, and prosperity.”
The program, jointly outlined by the Oyo State Government and the coronation committee will kick off on Monday, September 22 with an Interdenominational service at Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, organized by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).
Oyero emphasised that the coronation transcends Ibadan as it symbolizes Yoruba heritage, Nigerian culture, and African pride, saying, “This event is not just Ibadan’s; it is a celebration of the resilience and cultural identity of our people.”
Describing Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde as “magnanimous and uncommon,” he said it was the first time a non-government official would chair the planning committee for the coronation of an Olubadan of Ibadan, adding that the governor has provided everything required to make the weeklong event glamorous.
State government representative, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Otunba Ademola Ojo, in his address, emphasized that elaborate security measures have been put in place.
“Over 2,000 security operatives drawn from the Police, Civil Defence, DSS, Amotekun Corps, and OYRTMA will be deployed to ensure a hitch-free and peaceful coronation,” he said.
He also confirmed that the event will be broadcast live on state, national television, and selected radio stations, with social media Livestreaming for Nigerians in the diaspora.
As part of the celebrations, Ibadan’s music industry will take the center stage, with Fuji stars Saheed Osupa, Taye Currency, and a host of Ibadan indigenous musicians billed to entertain guests at the festivities.
The organising committee and the state government acknowledged the critical role of Governor Seyi Makinde in facilitating the coronation.
The Commissioner lauded the governor’s “timely release of funds, moral support, and respect for Ibadan tradition,” describing him as “a leader who has ensured that culture and governance walk hand in hand.”
Other dignitaries expected include state governors, members of the diplomatic corps, revered Yoruba monarchs, traditional rulers from across Nigeria, and Ibadan indigenes from the diaspora.
