Oyo: Week-long festivities outlined for coronation of 44th Olubadan

From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan

Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, is wearing a festive look as preparations intensify for the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Senator Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

The Coronation Ceremony Planning Committee has unveiled a week-long programme of events that will attract dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, celebrating the ascension of the former Oyo State governor to the revered throne.

According to the committee, festivities will begin on Monday, September 22, 2025, with a special investiture of Akanmu Ladoja as the Aremo (Crown Prince) of Ibadanland at the Apex Event Center, Agodi.

On Tuesday, September 23, a grand Coronation Cultural Fiesta will take place at the Olubadan Stadium, Iyaganku, where Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage will be showcased.

The celebrations will continue on Wednesday, September 24, with a Mega Praise and Worship Concert at Ibadan House, Oke Aremo. That same day, renowned historian Professor Toyin Falola will deliver a distinguished lecture at the Ibadan Civic Centre, followed by a civic reception in honor of the monarch.

Thursday, September 25, will be particularly significant as Kabiyesi marks his birthday, which the committee said will be celebrated in style ahead of the coronation.

The peak of the ceremonies will come on Friday, September 26, 2025, when Oba Ladoja will be formally crowned at the historic Mapo Hall—a venue symbolic of Ibadan’s enduring royal traditions.

Religious observances have also been incorporated into the programme. A thanksgiving mass will be held at the Catholic Church of the Ascension, New Bodija, on Sunday, September 28, while a special Jumat service is scheduled for Friday, October 3, at the Central Mosque, Oja’ba.

The celebrations will round off on Saturday, October 4, with the final rites and cultural displays at Osemeji, Ola’ba.

Speaking on behalf of the planning committee, Chief Adebayo Oyero, the committee’s chairman, assured that arrangements have been concluded for a befitting coronation. He urged residents and visitors to participate fully in the historic occasion while maintaining peace and order.