Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, says his ascension to the throne was by divine will, not wealth, as he pledges to promote peace and growth
Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has said that his emergence as the 44th Olubadan was through divine intervention, not financial power or political influence.
The monarch made this known on Tuesday when he received the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Peter Leenknegt, at his palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Oba Ladoja stated that his position as Olubadan was destined by God, emphasising that longevity, not wealth, determines who ascends the throne in Ibadan’s unique chieftaincy system.
“My ascension to the throne of Ibadanland is divine,” he said. “It is not the Ifa oracle that chooses an Oba for Ibadan, nor is it money that determines the selection. It is long life granted by God.”
He stressed that his foremost duty as monarch is to protect and serve all residents of Ibadanland regardless of tribe, faith, or political affiliation.
Oba Ladoja also addressed issues affecting the youth, particularly unemployment and drug abuse, describing them as major threats to peace and progress.
“Peace cannot exist without stomach infrastructure,” he remarked. “When our youth are gainfully employed, the menace of drug addiction threatening the future of our city will decline.”
The Olubadan commended Belgium’s interest in agricultural partnerships with Ibadan, highlighting the city’s vast resources and openness to sustainable investments.
“Ibadan has enormous agricultural potential and mineral wealth. We are open to partnerships that can transform the city and sustain our legacy as the Pacesetter,” he said.
In his remarks, Ambassador Leenknegt disclosed that cocoa had overtaken crude oil as Nigeria’s main export to Belgium, noting that the shift would improve farmers’ livelihoods and strengthen bilateral trade.
“Since 2024, cocoa has become Nigeria’s leading export to Belgium,” he said. “This development signifies growth for Nigerian farmers and a deepening of our economic relations.”
Later in the day, Oba Ladoja also received the Olofin of Isheri, Oba Ibrahim Bello, who praised his leadership and urged traditional rulers to uphold integrity and discipline in their conduct.
The visit was attended by members of the Olubadan Advisory Council and other traditional titleholders.
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