The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has urged both indigenes and residents to adopt New Year resolutions aimed at strengthening peaceful co-existence, unity, security and socio-economic renewal across Ibadan.
In a New Year message conveyed by his Chief Press Secretary, Chief Solomon Ayoade, the monarch congratulated the people for closing out 2025 and entering 2026 in good health. He called on all citizens to be deliberate in pursuing developments that will benefit the entire city.
Olubadan New Year message and priorities for Ibadan
Oba Ladoja asked residents to make resolutions that promote the safety of life and property, the revival of economic activities and the preservation of cultural values. He emphasised the need for collective action to realise what he described as the modern Ibadan of their shared aspirations.
“I urge you all to be resolute on the progress and unity of Ibadanland so as to jointly realise the modern Ibadanland of our dream,” the monarch said in the statement. He added that he has resolved to use the remainder of his life to serve God and humanity and to set a positive example for others.
Addressing traditional title holders, Oba Ladoja urged them to align with his vision for the city. He listed specific areas where their influence and cooperation are needed: strengthening security, driving urban renewal, halting land grabbing, resuscitating moribund companies and safeguarding Yoruba cultural heritage.
The monarch commended the security agencies in Ibadanland and across Oyo State for what he described as improved efforts in protecting lives and property during the holiday period. He encouraged officers and personnel not to relax their vigilance.
Local leaders and community stakeholders were reminded that the success of these initiatives rests on broad-based participation. Oba Ladoja stressed that traditional institutions and civic authorities must work together with security agencies and the private sector to tackle land disputes, restore dormant businesses and pursue development projects that lift living standards.
Observers say that a call from the Olubadan carries symbolic weight in Ibadanland, where traditional rulers often play a role in conflict resolution, community mobilisation and cultural preservation. The monarch’s appeal for unity and practical action aims to set the tone for civic engagement in the year ahead.
As Ibadan begins 2026, the Olubadan’s message frames the challenges facing the city as shared responsibilities that demand steady commitment. By urging residents to make constructive resolutions, Oba Ladoja has placed emphasis on peace, security and socio-economic revival as the pillars for sustainable progress in Ibadanland.
Key Takeaways:
- Olubadan issues a New Year call for residents and indigenes to prioritise peace, unity and socio-economic rejuvenation; focus keyword: Olubadan New Year message.
- The monarch pledges to devote his remaining years to service and urges traditional title holders to support urban renewal and security efforts.
- Key priorities include ending land grabbing, reviving moribund companies and preserving Yoruba cultural heritage.
- Security operatives were commended for improved performance and asked to sustain efforts.
