A renowned historian and scholar of African Studies, Professor Toyin Falola, has expressed strong belief that the emergence of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland will herald a new era of modernisation for the ancient city.
Speaking after delivering the Olubadan Coronation Lecture at the University of Ibadan’s International Conference Centre, yesterday, Professor Falola highlighted Ladoja’s vast experience in governance, business, and statesmanship as crucial assets for transforming Ibadan into a modern urban hub.
The lecture, titled, “Ibadan in History: Issues in Tradition and Modernity,” which formed part of the activities for the coronation of Oba Ladoja, was attended by traditional rulers, scholars, community leaders, and various dignitaries.
Falola, currently holding the Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair in the Humanities at the University of Texas at Austin, said the lecture formed the basis of a new book mapping out steps towards achieving a modern Ibadan State.
He emphasised key areas in need of reform, including waste management, environmental sanitation, and urban greening, noting, “Ladoja’s ambition is clear, achieving statehood for Ibadan. His leadership is a crucial step towards realising that vision.”
He lamented the city’s gradual environmental decline, recalling a time when tree-lined streets were the norm, adding, “Now, we no longer plant trees. It’s time for a clean, green Ibadan.”
Professor Falola also addressed the historical and cultural importance of Ibadan within Yorubaland, stating that the city has long played a central role in the region’s political and commercial life.
“Whether it’s Chief Obafemi Awolowo or Nnamdi Azikiwe, key political figures have always had strong ties to Ibadan,” he said.
The historian refuted claims that Ibadan people lacked interest in education, citing numerous prominent scholars and professionals of Ibadan origin, including Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank.
“Ibadan has been at the heart of regional and global economic networks since the 19th century, particularly in the palm oil trade. The city, he noted, remains a cultural and intellectual hub, with strong influence in the arts and film industry,” he added.
While advocating progress, Falola underscored the need to maintain ties with tradition, pointing out that: “Elements of the past remain with us, in our food, clothing, language, and customs. Modernisation doesn’t mean abandoning them, but evolving with them.”
Earlier, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, congratulated Oba Ladoja, expressing confidence that his reign would bring development and unity to Ibadanland.
He reaffirmed the university’s enduring relationship with the city and its cultural heritage, as the first native of Ibadan to become Vice-Chancellor.
Chairman of the Coronation Committee, Chief Bayo Oyero, described the lecture as a landmark event, the first of its kind prior to an Olubadan’s coronation.
He praised Oba Ladoja’s distinguished public service and said the event symbolised a bridge between heritage and progress.
Delivering his keynote address, Professor Amidu Sanni called for a redefinition of the Olubadan’s role, from traditional figurehead to a catalyst for development.
He stated that Ladoja’s leadership marked the beginning of a new chapter, combining cultural identity with intellectual and economic growth.
Highlight of the lecture featured Professor Falola receiving the “Most Patriotic Ibadan Indigene” award from the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), recognising his continued advocacy for the city’s advancement.
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