By Tunji Oladejo
Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan-designate of Ibadanland, extended a heartfelt appeal to Public Relations (PR) practitioners for their support in shaping a prosperous future for Ibadanland. During a congratulatory visit on Tuesday, 16 September 2025, by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Oyo State chapter, he underscored the indispensable role of PR specialists in societal development, describing them as professionals whose work touches every stratum of society. I joined the Institute in 1989.
Cool, calm, and collected, Oba Ladoja humbly viewed himself during our visit to him in his Bodija home as a “Coordinator,” or, more accurately, a “Coordinator-General”, if I may say so, working for the progress of Ibadanland, emphasising the need for collective effort. He emphasised the need to highlight and promote the positives of Ibadanland while addressing its challenges. He said, “Sebi Coordinator ni mi….” If I don’t understand anything, I will just ask someone to summarise for me, and if I don’t understand further, I will ask one of you to educate/enlighten me”. He is our grand patron.
A core goal, according to him, is restoring Ibadan’s safety and making it a habitable place, reminiscent of its past tranquillity. Recalling youthful days in Ibadan, where movement was unrestricted and secure, Oba Ladoja believed those good old days could be revisited.
Oba Ladoja praised PR specialists for rendering vital services permeating all societal levels.
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Jovial, he commended young people embracing PR, highlighting its importance in national development. Speaking in English because some of our members are not Yoruba, he said, “Are they still there? I want to talk to them.” Kabiyesi believed that PR practitioners’ contribution is crucial for his reign’s success as the 44th Olubadan.
His emphasis on collaboration echoes traditional Ibadan values of community involvement and collective responsibility. Oba Ladoja’s appeal reflects a leadership approach centered on partnership, aiming to revive Ibadanland’s vibrancy and ensure its people thrive in a secure environment.
Kabiyesi, NIPR, Oyo State chapter is with you. You will succeed, Olubadan of Ibadanland. A mo ri ri yin. (We appreciate you).
Tunji Oladejo, JP, MNIPR, who writes from the University of Ibadan via oladejo65@gmail.com
08077284442 is the former Acting National Secretary (2003-2005), former National Public Relations Officer (2007-2009), Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), and Secretary of the First-ever Olubadan Coronation Lecture Committee scheduled as follows:
Topic: IBADAN IN HISTORY: ISSUES IN MODERNITY AND TRADITION
Lecturer: Professor Toyin Falola, D.Litt. (Ib), Jacob & Sanger Chair of Humanities, University of Texas at Austin, USA & Bobapitan of Ibadanland.
Date: Wednesday, 24 September, 2025
Time: 11.00 am
Venue: International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
