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From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
Oluyole Progressive Union, United Kingdom chapter, has reaffirmed its commitment to the preservation of Ibadan history, culture and collective progress with the launch of two new books during its 2025 end-of-year gathering in London.
The books, Giant Strides and Ibadan Hegemony, authored by Oba Tajudeen Abimbola Ajibola, the Balogun of Ibadanland, were unveiled at a well-attended ceremony held at the Denmark Hill Community Hall, Camberwell, London. The event brought together Ibadan indigenes, traditional leaders and professionals in the diaspora.
President of the Union, Alhaji Akeem Akinborode, described the book launch as a significant contribution to the documentation and promotion of Ibadan’s rich historical and cultural heritage. He said the union deliberately aligned the launch with its annual celebration to show the importance of intellectual engagement and cultural consciousness among Ibadan sons and daughters abroad.
According to Akinborode, the Oluyole Progressive Union exists not only as a social platform but also as a vehicle for unity, identity and development among Ibadan indigenes in the diaspora, while maintaining strong ties with the homeland.
Chief Launcher of the books, Alhaji Sulaiman Ajayi, commended the author for chronicling Ibadan’s leadership evolution and influence, noting that such works would serve as reference materials for future generations.
The colourful event, which also doubled as the union’s end-of-year party, featured cultural displays, networking, donations and a raffle draw, reflecting the communal spirit that defines Ibadan people.
Several prominent personalities graced the occasion, including Oba Tajudeen Abimbola Ajibola; Chief Abdul Gafar Gbadamosi, Mogaji of Atere family, Ibadan; Chief Lukman Okedina, Mogaji of Ile Toki, Ayeye, Ibadan; Chief Muili Oluwole Oladejo, Mogaji Agbon Omilabu and Chief Yinka Adeniran, among others.
Founded in 2000 and affiliated with the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), the Oluyole Progressive Union has continued to promote the welfare of Ibadan indigenes at home and in the diaspora. The association is also known for its humanitarian interventions, including regular donations to Adeoyo Maternity Hospital, Ibadan.
