Ibadan has potential to become Nigeria’s economic hub – CCII

The President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Ajeniyi Ajewole, on Wednesday said Ibadan, Oyo State capital, possesses the capacity to emerge as a leading economic force in Nigeria, noting that harnessing its potential would create employment opportunities for youths and significantly boost the state’s internally generated revenue.

He made this disclosure during a press conference to herald activities for the grand finale of the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival, held at Ibadan House, Oke Aremo, in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Ajewole explained that beyond cultural celebration, the festival serves as a platform to foster unity among indigenes and residents.

The CCII president-general added that four deserving Nigerians have been shortlisted for honours at the grand finale of the cultural festival.

The individuals include the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Ishaq Oloyede; the Senator representing Oyo North, Abdulfatai Buhari; and the Vice-Chancellor, Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Adesola Ajayi.

Justifying the selection, he said the individuals have not only made their mark in service to humanity in their various capacities, but have also contributed in one way or another to the progress of the ancient city through their endeavours.

Ajewole said the activities lined up were designed to celebrate the rich heritage of the ancient city while promoting its economic potential, adding that the festival is strategically positioned to attract tourists and showcase Ibadan as a hub of economic opportunities.

“Ibadan possesses the capacity to emerge as a leading economic force in Nigeria as it is the South-West capital of Nigeria. Harnessing its potential would create employment opportunities for youths and significantly boost the state’s internally generated revenue.

“Our aim is to promote our past heroes. Ibadan is a city that was formed by warriors, and we showcase their legacies every year.

“The festival also provides an opportunity for Ibadan indigenes in the diaspora to return home, witness the city’s development, and contribute to its economic growth,” he said.

He added that the annual celebration stimulates economic activities, including trade, arts and crafts production, and tourism-related ventures, all of which contribute to local development.

Providing further details, the festival committee outlined a wide range of activities leading up to the grand finale scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

Activities include a Jumat service, medical outreach and distribution of palliatives, Amala Day, church thanksgiving, an education and talent hunt programme, a youth conference, a stage play, a beauty pageant, a business dinner, an Ibadan conference, and a march past.

“A key highlight of the festival is the Ibadan Loni Fuji talent show, which will bring together Fuji enthusiasts. The initiative is aimed at exposing our artists to the stage.

“The grand finale will feature a parade of affiliate clubs, with awards for the best-performing groups, alongside musical performances by artists serving as brand ambassadors for this year’s festival.

“In addition to individual honours, the Oluyode family will be specially celebrated as one of the founding warriors of Ibadan land.

“This year’s edition is notably distinguished by the involvement of First City Monument Bank as the headline sponsor, marking a significant boost in corporate participation compared to previous editions,” he added.

In his remarks, the Planning Committee Chairman, Gbolagade Akere, expressed optimism that the festival would not only preserve Ibadan’s cultural heritage but also position the city as a major destination for tourism and investment in Nigeria.

He thanked individuals, families, and groups within and outside Ibadan who have continuously supported the festival over the years, and appealed to other well-meaning individuals to see the festival as an opportunity to contribute to the progress and development of Ibadanland.