By Feyisetan Hamzat | Benny News Hub
October 2025
In a renewed push to restore Ibadan’s industrial pride, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has inaugurated a strategic economic team to revive moribund industries across the city.
The committee comprises seasoned technocrats and industry experts carefully selected to reposition Ibadan as a major economic hub in the South-West. Former Minister of Trade, Chief (Mrs.) Onikepo Akande, will serve as Chairman of the committee, while a former Head of Service of the Federation, Professor Dapo Afolabi, has been named Co-Chairman.
During the inauguration, the Olubadan stressed that Ibadan possesses all it takes — from land resources to human capital — to regain its industrial vibrancy. The monarch added that the team will collaborate with both the private and public sectors, including traditional institutions and youth-driven enterprises.
Stakeholders believe the initiative could mark a turning point for economic sustainability, job creation, and value-chain expansion within Oyo State. Successful execution, however, is expected to depend on transparent governance and well-coordinated investment drives.
— Benny News Hub
