Prof. Sabit Ariyo Olagoke, Founder and Spiritual Head of Shafaudeen-in-Islam Worldwide, has congratulated His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on his 82nd birthday and first anniversary as Olubadan of Ibadanland. The congratulatory message was made available through his media aide, Bode Akinbode. Oba Ladoja ascended to the throne on September 26, 2025, marking a new era for Ibadanland.
According to Prof. Olagoke, Oba Ladoja has redefined traditional leadership within his first year on the throne, demonstrating that royalty is about service to the people. The monarch has achieved developmental facilitation, promoted peace and security, and encouraged economic and youth development in Ibadanland. His statesmanship has been instrumental in facilitating several projects, including the N296 billion reconstruction and dualisation of the Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode Road.
The Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode Road project is a strategic development that is expected to boost economic growth and improve infrastructure in the region. Additionally, Oba Ladoja has secured approval for the channelisation of Kudeti River through the Ecological Fund Office. This move aims to mitigate the risks of flooding and enhance environmental sustainability in Ibadanland.
Prof. Olagoke also commended Oba Ladoja for promoting peace and unity, discouraging the activities of land grabbers known as ‘Omo Onile’, and inaugurating the Ibadan Community Guards. These initiatives aim to complement conventional security agencies and ensure safety across the 11 local government areas of Ibadanland. The Olubadan's focus on security has contributed significantly to maintaining peace in the region.
The Shafaudeen leader lauded Oba Ladoja for his efforts in economic revitalisation, youth empowerment, and creating an enabling environment for investors. As a former Senator, Governor, and elder statesman, Prof. Olagoke advised the monarch to deploy his wealth of experience to strengthen unity among traditional stakeholders, including the Olubadan-in-Council, Mogajis, and Baales.
Prof. Olagoke urged Oba Ladoja to continue to be a unifying figure for politicians and to promote quality education and moral rebirth for youths in Ibadanland. He prayed Almighty Allah to grant the Olubadan long life, sound health, wisdom, and renewed strength for a peaceful and prosperous reign. Oba Ladoja's leadership has set a positive precedent for traditional rulers in Nigeria.
As Oba Ladoja marks his 82nd birthday and first anniversary as Olubadan, his achievements and commitment to the development of Ibadanland have been acknowledged by various stakeholders. Key points from his tenure include:
Key points
- Oba Ladoja has facilitated several developmental projects, including the Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode Road reconstruction.
- He has promoted peace and security by discouraging land grabbers and inaugurating the Ibadan Community Guards.
- The monarch has focused on economic revitalisation and youth empowerment, creating an enabling environment for investors.
