The Preparations for the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, have commenced with the inauguration of the Coronation Committee. The committee, chaired by Chief Bayo Oyero, held its first meeting on Monday with the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Demola Ojo, in attendance.
The coronation is scheduled for Friday, September 26, 2025, at Mapo Hall, Ibadan. In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the committee unveiled a one-week programme of events leading to the coronation.
The activities will begin on Monday, September 22, with an interdenominational service at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, organised by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).
Highlights of the programme include:
Tuesday, Sept. 23 – Cultural Day, jointly organised by the CCII and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
Wednesday, Sept. 24 – Coronation Lecture, to be delivered by renowned historian Prof. Toyin Falola.
Thursday, Sept. 25 – A Mega Praise Worship service at the Civic Centre, Idi Ape.
Friday, Sept. 26 – Coronation Ceremony at Mapo Hall.
The inaugural meeting was attended by representatives of the Olubadan, including the Asipa Olubadan-designate, Oba Hamidu Ajibade; Chief Nureni Adisa; and the monarch’s media aide, Chief Adeola Oloko.
Also present were commissioners for Culture and Tourism, Women Affairs, and Information, alongside local government chairmen from Egbeda and Ibadan South-East. Representatives of the Oyo State House of Assembly, the Governor’s Office, and permanent secretaries from key ministries were also in attendance.
The week-long celebration is expected to attract dignitaries, traditional rulers, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond.