Olubaddan Is An Impetus To Industrialisation In Ibadan - Oloko
The media adviser to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Mr. Adeola Oloko, has revealed the monarch's success story in the last 365 days in office.
Speaking during an interview with newsmen, he hinted that His Imperial Majesty Oba Alayeluwa Rasheed Ladoja has continued to use his wealth of connections in the public and private sectors to enhance industrialisation in Ibadanland. Excerpts
Q: What has been the success story of Kabiyesi in the last one year?
A: We appreciate the grace of God in the life of our Kabiyesi because God is the supreme being and he has given the monarch the required wisdom, knowledge and understanding to steer the ship of progress in the last one year in office. Yes, there have been challenges, no doubt, but God has helped us so far. Kabiyesi came on board with a clear idea that during his reign all the industries in Ibadan that have one or two challenges will come back to limelight through an economic investment committee which comprises eminent businessmen and entrepreneurs of Ibadan extraction.
Their mission is to advise the monarch on the best approach to restore the lost glory in Ibadan, more importantly in the area of industrialisation, as this will not only create jobs for the youth but will also increase the purchasing power of the people. The monarch is poised towards making the palace independent of government; he does not want the palace to be waiting for handouts from government at the end of every month, so he decided to venture into the cocoa business, which we are well known for in this part of the country.
A cocoa plantation is on the pipeline and we have contacted relevant professionals at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria on how it will be planted and harvested. We have also entered into agreements with beverage companies that will depend solely on us for supply. On insecurity, a lot of measures have been put in place in collaboration with the various security agencies to ensure that the people could sleep with their two eyes closed; I will not disclose those measures to the public.
Olubadan has also upscaled the traditional institution; individuals who have added value to society in no small measure are encouraged. Patriotism has been the order of the day: before you can be given chieftaincy titles, you must demonstrate what you have been able to attract to your fatherland. A couple of weeks back Olubadan had the privilege to discuss with the President key issues affecting the growth of Ibadanland. Fortunately, the federal government approved the reconstruction of the Ibadan-Ijebu?Ode expressway, which will improve economic activities on that corridor and this is a gift to the Olubadan.
Kabiyesi has been very active in dispute resolution; issues that ought to have led to crises were amicably resolved.
Q: During Kabiyesi's coronation he spoke about the need for the creation of Ibadan State. Is there any progress report on this?
A: By the special grace of God, Ibadan State will be created. As you know, it needs to pass through various legislative proceedings; hopefully it will be created very soon.
