IBADAN – THE President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has commended Nigerians for their resilience and patience in the face of recent economic and social challenges, assuring the nation that their sacrifices are not in vain and are already yielding progress and growth. Speaking on Friday at the coronation ceremony of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, held at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan, the President acknowledged the perseverance of citizens through difficult times, while promising better days ahead. “I know the times have been hard, but your suffering is not without purpose. The path we are on is already bearing fruits of progress, and I can assure you that we are laying a solid foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future,” Tinubu said. While addressing the large gathering of traditional rulers, political leaders, and citizens, the President paid tribute to Oba Rashidi Ladoja, describing him as “a monarch of wisdom, peace, and vision.” The president said Ladoja had faced many challenges as governor which led to his removal, adding that he was happy that the former governor was reinstated. “Let me salute the lucky Imperial Majesty, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja Arusa 1st. And all other traditional rulers.” “Today is an important occasion. I am happy to witness the history and your coronation. It is a great honor and moment of history that you ascend the throne of your forebears. It is my honor. “I take this opportunity to salute former governors, Donald Duke, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Gbenga Daniel.” “This moment is not for long speeches. To many of you here present today, I am honored.” “Kabiyesi Oba Rashidi Ladoja is not only a man of immense experience but one deeply loved by his people. His ascension to the throne marks a new era of hope and unity for Ibadanland.” “I have no doubt that under his leadership, Ibadan will witness even greater development,” Tinubu stated. He further reiterated his commitment to working with traditional institutions and state governments to ensure peace, security, and economic revitalisation across the country. Earlier in his remarks, Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, congratulated the newly installed monarch, pledging the full support of his administration to the Olubadan in delivering on his responsibilities. “This occasion is a reminder of our rich heritage and the stability of our traditional institution. Kabiyesi Ladoja is a symbol of continuity and progress.” “The Oyo State Government will stand firmly behind him in promoting peace and development across Ibadanland,” Makinde said. The governor also called on all residents and stakeholders in Ibadan to rally behind the new monarch, adding that unity among the people will fast-track the city’s socio-economic growth. In his acceptance speech, Oba Rashidi Ladoja expressed deep appreciation for development, highlighting the need for renewed commitment to Ibadan’s development. He also used the platform to make a passionate appeal for the creation of Ibadan State out of the present Oyo State for accelerated development. “Your Excellency, I have been inundated with calls by our people to inform you of our demand for Ibadan State, out of the present Oyo State, for accelerated development.” “It will gladden our hearts to see Ibadan State created with your maximum support, Mr. President,” the monarch said. Addressing issues of social concern, the Olubadan vowed to tackle the menace of street urchins (popularly known as area boys) within the city. “We are irrevocably committed to reducing the cases of area boys in Ibadan. Soon, we shall launch a multi-billion Naira Economic Development Programme to revive companies that once thrived here and create jobs for our youths.” Reflecting on his long journey to the throne, the monarch described it as a divine journey, not driven by power or wealth, but by destiny. “It is not by power, influence, connection, or money that we are where we are today. I thank God for guiding me from the starting line as Mogaji in 1992 to this point.” He pledged to be a father to all, irrespective of religion, tribe, or political affiliation, and called on all arms of traditional leadership in Ibadan to join hands in ensuring peace and development. “As Olubadan of Ibadanland, I pledge to promote peace, love, and unity among our diverse peoples. I shall not do it alone, I have the full backing of the Olubadan-in-Council, our local chiefs, and titleholders,” he added. The coronation event was graced by Senator Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, among others. Traditional rulers like the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi represented by Olori Ashley Ogunwusi and His Royal Highness Obalufe of Ife, Oba Adediwura, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, Soun of Ogbomosho, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Olaoye and the Oluwo of Iwo.
