The much-anticipated coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has formally entered a new phase as the Coronation Inaugural Committee held its first meeting on Sunday under the chairmanship of Chief Bayo Oyero.
In a press release signed by Prince Dotun Oyelade, Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, the meeting deliberated extensively on preparations for the epoch-making event scheduled for Friday, September 26, 2025, at the historic Mapo Hall.
The Committee, which had in attendance Hon. Demola Ojo, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, adopted a week-long programme of activities leading to the coronation.
According to the release, the activities will commence on Monday, September 22, with an interdenominational service at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, organised by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).
Tuesday, September 23 will feature a Cultural Day celebration jointly organised by the CCII and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
A Coronation Lecture to be delivered by globally renowned scholar, Professor Toyin Falola, will hold on Wednesday, September 24.
Thursday, September 25 has been set aside for a Mega Praise Worship at the Civic Centre, Idi Ape, while the grand finale—the Coronation Ceremony of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland—will take place on Friday, September 26 at Mapo Hall.
The inaugural meeting was graced by top dignitaries including representatives of the Olubadan-in-waiting such as the Asipa Olubadan-designate, Oba Hamidu Ajibade; Chief Nureni Adisa; and Chief Adeola Oloko, Media Aide to the Olubadan.
Also in attendance were commissioners for Culture and Tourism, Women Affairs, and Information; council chairmen of Egbeda and Ibadan South East (representing all 11 councils in Ibadanland); as well as a member of the Oyo State House of Assembly representing Ibadan South East.
Other notable attendees included the Governor’s Director-General of Protocol, alongside Permanent Secretaries of the Ministries of Protocol and Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.
Prince Oyelade assured the people of Ibadanland that all arrangements are being put in place to ensure a colourful, historic, and well-organised coronation befitting the revered stool of the Olubadan.
