By Babatunde Tiamiyu
The need for structured adjustments, implementation of novel initiatives and creation of an atmosphere that respects age-long tradition have been described as the bedrock of the highly anticipated development in Ibadan.
A Professor of African History at The University of Texas, Austin, United States of America,Toyin Falola, made this assertion at the first Olubadan Coronation Lecture in honour of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
In his Four Hundred and Three-paged lecture titled “Ibadan in History: Issues in Tradition and Modernity”, Professor Falola affirmed that Ibadan is the epicentre of socio-economic and political development in Africa and has produced notable figures in the world of music and entertainment, fiction, socio-cultural development and Communications.
Professor Falola emphasized the need for the establishment of various initiatives that would revive the glory of Ibadan, as such are important for the continued progress of the city.
The Distinguished Teaching Professor, who is the Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair and the Kluge Chair of the Countries and Culture of the South, The Library of Congress Washington DC, also presented a structured map of the proposed Ibadan State and called on all indigenes of Ibadan to support the New Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja in the creation of a city that would be the envy of all cities in modern day Africa.
Present at the first Olubadan Coronation Lecture were members od the Olubadan-in-Council, Mogajis of Ibadanland, Senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, all Principal Officers of the University of Ibadan led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, world renowned scholars and stakeholders in culture, media and entertainment.
