The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has inaugurated a high-powered Monarch Investment and Economic Committee aimed at driving economic revival and urban renewal in Ibadan, Oyo State’s ancient capital city.
The inauguration ceremony, held on Friday at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan, had in attendance members of the Olubadan-in-Council and other distinguished guests.
Oba Ladoja appointed Chief (Mrs) Onikepo Akande, two-time Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Iyalaje Iyalode of Ibadanland, as Chairman of the committee, while Professor Dapo Afolabi, former Head of Service of the Federation, was named Co-Chairman.
Other notable members of the committee include:
- Chief Adelodun Olaiya
- Dr. Kazeem Sola Adeduntan, former Group Managing Director of First Bank of Nigeria
- Chief Dotun Sanusi, Bada Olubadan-Designate
- Chief Kola Karim, Agbaoye of Ibadanland
- Chief Taofeek Adegboyega Adegoke, Aregbe Omo Balogun
- Chief Tajudeen Aremu, former Oyo State Head of Service, who will serve as the Committee Secretary
Additional members are:
- Alhaji Remi Bello, former President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry
- Chief Yomi Idowu, Agbaakin Atayese of Ibadanland
- Chief Owolabi Oladejo, media promoter
- Pastor Dr. Bayo Olugbemi, former President and Chairman, Governing Council, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN)
Speaking during the inauguration, Oba Ladoja emphasized the urgent need to restore Ibadan’s lost industrial glory, recalling the days when the city hosted several thriving companies such as Leyland, Exide Battery, Nigerian Wire and Cable, Isoglass, and Ferodo.
“The question people keep asking is: where are these companies today? Why did they disappear? And more importantly, how can we bring them back to create jobs for our teeming youth?” the monarch asked.
He described members of the newly formed committee as “boardroom grandmasters and business brands with proven records of success,” expressing confidence in their ability to spearhead the city’s economic rejuvenation.
Responding on behalf of the committee, Chief Tajudeen Aremu assured the Olubadan and his council of the team’s commitment to delivering on its mandate and meeting the aspirations of the people of Ibadanland.
“We are ready to justify the confidence reposed in us and work tirelessly to return Ibadan to its rightful place as a hub of commerce, industry, and innovation,” Aremu pledged.
