Ibadanland recently witnessed a momentous occasion as Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, was officially coronated as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The historic ceremony, held at the Mapo Hall Arcade in Ibadan, was graced by an array of dignitaries, including the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, underscoring the significance of the traditional institution.

Governor Seyi Makinde, in a pivotal address, declared the Olubadan traditional system and its succession process to be sacrosanct and firmly upheld. Presenting the staff and instruments of office to Oba Ladoja, Governor Makinde affirmed that all challenges previously associated with the Olubadan Chieftaincy System are now resolved. He expressed his prayers for Oba Ladoja's reign to usher in an era of peace, progress, and significant development for the ancient city. The Governor highlighted a notable 'history-making' event that coincided with the coronation: President Tinubu's landing at the upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, Alakia, Ibadan, in the first wide-bodied aircraft to ever utilize the facility, symbolizing positive developments commencing with the new Olubadan's era. Makinde congratulated the people of Ibadanland, emphasizing that the widespread excitement for the ascension indicated a collective desire to uphold their cherished traditions.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his congratulatory remarks, described it as a great honour to witness the coronation. He lauded Oba Ladoja's impeccable perseverance, resilience, and reliability, drawing on shared memories from their time in the Nigerian Senate, and recalling Oba Ladoja's travails during his impeachment as Oyo State governor and subsequent comeback. President Tinubu prayed for the new royal father's long life and a successful reign, hoping he would be celebrated as one of the rare gems to ascend the throne.

Beyond the chieftaincy, President Tinubu also addressed the national economic climate, boldly declaring that Nigeria's economy had "bounced back" and was firmly on the path of growth and prosperity. He acknowledged the prevailing hardship, hunger, and inflation across the country, but described the suffering as the "pain of a painful surgery" that would ultimately lead to growth and prosperity. He thanked Nigerians for their perseverance, endurance, and understanding in the face of reforms, such as the removal of petrol subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange market segments, which have led to increased costs of transport and basic food items.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja reflected on Ibadan's rich heritage and its resourceful people, emphasizing the foresight of forefathers in accommodating leading federal establishments and private businesses, which he stated must now contribute back to the community. A significant plea from the new Olubadan was directed at President Tinubu, urging him to facilitate the creation of Ibadan State from the current Oyo State before May 2027. Oba Ladoja declared that his reign would be dedicated to service, not just to Ibadan, but also to Oyo State, Yorubaland, Nigeria, and Africa. He vowed to serve the people to the best of his ability, recognizing his blessed longevity (having turned 81) and the opportunity to serve humanity. Furthermore, he outlined urban renewal as a key focus, aiming to rebuild communities in the city that are fast developing into slums. He expressed joy for the staff of office, appreciating the President, Oyo State Government, the Coronation Committee, and critically, the Olubadan-in-Council, who as kingmakers, supported his nomination and made his ascension possible. He concluded by reiterating Ibadan's unity, overcoming past challenges.

Goodwill messages were also extended by the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, who noted Oba Ladoja’s resilient journey, and by the Chairman of the Olubadan Coronation Planning Committee, Chief Bayo Oyero; President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barrister Ajeniyi Ajewole; and the Agbaoye of Ibadanland, Chief Kola Karim. They collectively lauded Governor Makinde's support for tradition and expressed hopes for a reign of growth, progress, and prosperity for Ibadanland and Oyo State.

The event saw a distinguished gathering, including the wife of Oyo State Governor, Engr (Mrs) Tamunomini Makinde; Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, and Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti; Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu; and Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Dr Zacch Adedeji. Also present were former Governors, including Senators Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), Dr Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Engr Rabiu Musa Kwankaso and Ibrahim Shekarau (Kano), and Donald Duke (Cross River). Senior Oyo State Government functionaries, prominent royal fathers such as the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, further underscored the event's importance. Other attendees included the Forum of Former Governor’s Wives in Nigeria (2003-2007), service commanders, and religious leaders.