Major Boost for Ibadan Cultural Heritage
The cultural landscape of Ibadan witnessed a significant enhancement on Thursday, November 29, 2025, as His Royal Majesty, Oba Abimbola Tajudeen Ajibola, the Balogun of Ibadanland, presented two important cultural works to the public. The unveiling ceremony for Giant Strides, Ibadan Hegemony and the Yoruba film Agbeni took place at Theophilus Ogunlesi Hall within the University College Hospital (UCH) complex in Ibadan.
Political Support for Cultural Preservation
The event gathered numerous influential figures from traditional institutions, political circles, academic communities, and cultural advocacy groups. Among the distinguished attendees was Olufemi Ajadi, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who made a substantial contribution to the cultural initiative. Ajadi launched both the books and film with an impressive ₦5 million donation, characterizing his support as a personal dedication to safeguarding Yoruba cultural identity and honoring Ibadan's historical significance.
Ambassador Ajadi emphasized during his address that Ibadan's enduring legacy in governance, cultural development, and leadership makes the documentation of its history worthy of collective backing. "Ibadan is not just a city; it is a symbol of strength, a home of wisdom, and a centre of Yoruba civilisation," he declared passionately.
Royal and Governmental Endorsement
The ceremony enjoyed high-level patronage with the presence of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, who served as Royal Father of the Day. The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, attended as the Special Guest of Honour, demonstrating governmental support for cultural preservation efforts.
Ajadi commended Oba Ajibola for his initiative in documenting Ibadan's past and present through literature and film, noting that such cultural documentation plays an essential role in strengthening communal identity. "When our traditional institutions invest in knowledge, film and history, they are building a foundation for generations unborn," he added, praising the monarch for leading what he described as an intellectual renaissance in Yoruba culture.
The PDP chieftain also reaffirmed his commitment to youth development, creative arts, and the preservation of Yoruba heritage. He expressed hope that these cultural works would reach international audiences and become reference materials for anyone seeking to understand Ibadan's profound influence.
In his response, the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Ajibola, thanked all dignitaries and supporters, describing the books and film as "a collective inheritance for the Yoruba people." He explained that the project was motivated by the necessity to chronicle Ibadan's evolution, political structures, and its widespread influence across Nigeria and beyond.
Governor Seyi Makinde praised the cultural initiative, highlighting the importance of cultural infrastructure and creative industries in promoting state identity and stimulating economic development.
The event concluded with vibrant cultural performances and a screening of excerpts from Agbeni, which creatively blends historical narration with artistic interpretation of Ibadan's political traditions.
