In a warm display of traditional and executive brotherhood, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, paid a courtesy visit to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Friday to express his appreciation for the support Lagos State provided during his landmark coronation last year. During the meeting at the Lagos House in Marina, the monarch took the time to reflect on the deep-rooted personal and historical ties he shares with the city of Lagos.
The visit served as a platform for the Olubadan to formally acknowledge the Governor and various Lagos stakeholders for their presence and contributions to his enthronement. As the Chairman of the Oyo State Traditional Council of Obas and Chiefs, the monarch did not hold back in his praise for the visible transformation taking place across Lagos. He specifically pointed to the significant improvements in traffic management, noting that the state’s investment in high-quality infrastructure has noticeably eased the daily struggles of commuters.
Oba Ladoja was particularly impressed with the state’s multi-modal transportation network, highlighting the Blue and Red rail lines and the expansion of water transportation. He observed that these projects have slashed travel times across the metropolis, setting a benchmark for urban development. The monarch used the occasion to once again advocate for a formal constitutional role for traditional rulers in Nigeria. He argued that such a move would bridge the gap between the government and the grassroots, fostering a more effective and collaborative style of leadership nationwide.
Responding to the royal visitor, Governor Sanwo-Olu described Ibadan as a vital cultural headquarters and a rallying point for the entire Yoruba race. He commended Oba Ladoja for his long-standing record of public service and his current role in maintaining peace and unity within Oyo State. The Governor expressed deep respect for the Olubadan’s visionary leadership, stating that his reign comes at a crucial time for the development of Ibadanland.
Governor Sanwo-Olu offered prayers for a long and impactful tenure for the monarch, emphasizing his confidence that the Olubadan’s wisdom would bring about significant transformation. He assured the king that the government and people of Lagos would remain steadfast allies of the Ibadan kingdom. The meeting concluded with the Governor pledging continued cooperation between the two states, reinforcing the bond between Nigeria’s economic hub and one of its most historic traditional centers.
