Olubadan coronation marks Oba Rashidi Ladoja’s ascent as Ibadan’s 44th monarch, celebrating tradition, leadership, and Yoruba royal heritage

Olubadan coronation ceremonies reached new heights of splendour as Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, former governor and statesman, ascended the throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland—a crown earned through 32 years of dignified patience and public service.

Also read: Tinubu Hails Traditional Institutions at Olubadan Coronation

The grand event, held at Mapo Hall on 25 September 2025, drew dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond. It was a coronation steeped in tradition, brilliance, and symbolism.

From academic elites and business magnates to royalty and federal leaders—including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—the city stood still to honour one of its most illustrious sons.

Oba Ladoja’s life reads like a legend: born in 1944, trained in Chemical Engineering at the University of Liège, a top executive at Total Nigeria, and a political leader who governed Oyo State between 2003 and 2007.

His elevation to Olubadan was not only a personal milestone, but a national celebration of patience, leadership, and vision.

The Olubadan coronation tradition is unlike any other. Ibadan’s unique succession system ensures a peaceful and predictable transition of power—rulers ascend by seniority, not selection.

There are no royal battles, only ladders of merit, the Otun and Balogun lines, that lead upward.

Ladoja, now known as Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, waited more than three decades to reach the pinnacle of Ibadan royalty.

His journey up the chieftaincy ladder reflects the city’s values—discipline, patience, and endurance.

In a rare show of federal recognition, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived aboard the Boeing Business Jet 737, marking the first time such an aircraft landed at Ibadan Airport—thanks to recent upgrades by Governor Seyi Makinde.

The moment symbolised more than aviation capacity—it underscored national attention, federal presence, and the powerful alliance between royalty and presidency, once business partners, now leaders of state and city.

From oríkì chants to aso-oke regalia, the coronation was a visual and spiritual symphony.

Market women danced, elders recited ancestral praise, and global media captured the spectacle. This wasn’t just a Yoruba event—it was Nigeria in miniature.

Academic tributes were paid by university dons; musicians sang the praises of Ibadan’s warrior legacy; and kings from across Yorubaland graced the occasion. Private jets lined the tarmac while Ibadan’s streets thrummed with joy.

Governor Seyi Makinde, resplendent in flowing white agbada, served as chief host and officiator. In 2025 alone, he crowned two paramount rulers—a record for Oyo State.

His meticulous planning ensured a flawless ceremony, bolstering Ibadan’s image as a city of peace, pride, and preparedness.

Makinde’s contribution to cultural heritage and urban renewal—including calls for a 5-star hotel in Ibadan—underscores his commitment to positioning Oyo State for greater prominence.

As Olubadan Arusa I, Oba Ladoja brings together engineering precision, business savvy, political acumen, and deep cultural knowledge.

His ascension heralds a reign of reconciliation, stability, and development, powered by key alliances and a vision of unity.

His long-standing relationship with President Tinubu and the cooperation of Governor Makinde signal an era of synergy between throne and government—potentially unlocking transformative growth for Ibadan.

In the words of the oríkì:

“Káde pé lórí, kí bàtà pé lẹ́sẹ̀, kí àṣẹ pé l’énu.”
May the crown endure, the feet stand firm, the word command power.

Also read: Oba Rashidi Ladoja Crowned 44th Olubadan of Ibadan

Oba Rashidi Ladoja’s coronation is not merely a ceremonial passing of authority—it is a restoration of legacy, a rebirth of Ibadan’s identity, and a bold step toward the future.