By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Ibadan, Nigeria — Thursday, September 25, 2025
The ancient city of Ibadan came alive on Thursday as the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, arrived ahead of the historic coronation of High Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The revered monarch, who also serves as co-chairman of the National Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria, touched down at the Ibadan Airport at about 2:50 p.m., where he was warmly received by top Oyo State government officials, members of the Olubadan-in-Council, and an array of prominent Yoruba traditional rulers.
The Sultan’s presence underscores the national significance of the coronation, which is set to attract dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond. Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State and respected Ibadan chief, will ascend the throne following the passing of the late Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun, who joined his ancestors in March this year.
Sources within the Oyo State government confirmed that elaborate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safety of guests and residents during the ceremony, expected to draw political leaders, captains of industry, and cultural enthusiasts.
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In a brief remark on arrival, Sultan Abubakar commended the people of Ibadan for their rich cultural heritage and described the coronation as “a celebration of Yoruba tradition that holds lessons of unity for all Nigerians.” He added that the relationship between the North and the Southwest “has always been strong, and such occasions further strengthen our bond as one people under God.”
Preparations for Friday’s event have reached their peak, with Mapo Hall, the historic seat of Ibadan traditional authority, being adorned with cultural symbols and decorations. Traders, artisans, and hoteliers in the city are already recording a boost in business activities as visitors pour into Ibadan.
Oba Ladoja, who rose through the famed Ibadan traditional hierarchy from Mogaji to Otun Olubadan before his current elevation, is widely regarded as a bridge-builder, philanthropist, and political icon. His coronation is expected to usher in a new era of cultural pride and development for Ibadanland.
The Merit Newspaper reports that coronation of an Olubadan is a once-in-a-generation spectacle, steeped in centuries-old customs that emphasize merit and seniority over wealth or influence. Unlike other Yoruba kingdoms, where succession is often contested, Ibadan’s unique chieftaincy system is admired for its orderliness and inclusivity.
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With the arrival of the Sultan of Sokoto and other eminent monarchs, all is now set for what promises to be one of the most colorful and unifying traditional events in Nigeria’s recent history.
