The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja ARUSA I, on Friday declared open the 3rd Annual Socio-Economic Summit of the Jericho Businessmen Club (JBC), charging the club to remain steadfast in its mission to restore Ibadan to its historic position as a regional economic leader.
Speaking at the summit held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, the Olubadan began his address with a call for gender inclusivity, noting that while the club has made remarkable strides, its name Jericho Businessmen Club Ibadan reflects a male-only identity.
He urged the leadership to ensure gender balance and embrace broader representation in future engagements.
Addressing the summit theme, “Future-Ready Oyo State: Tech, Talent and Transformation for a Thriving Tomorrow,” the monarch emphasized the critical role of technology in shaping modern societies.
“We cannot thrive in today’s world without technology,” he said, stressing the immense potential of young people when equipped with digital tools such as computers and smartphones for productive use.
The Olubadan commended JBC for its recently concluded three-day youth boot camp, which provided hands-on digital training and exposure to emerging skills.
He encouraged the club to continue investing in young people, describing youth empowerment as essential for Ibadan’s long-term progress.
“I am happy this is happening during my time,” he said. “I implore you not to relent so that we bring Ibadan back to what it used to be. Ibadan used to be the leader in the Western Region, and the Western Region used to be Nigeria. Look at all the firsts we have recorded in Ibadan.”
Oba Ladoja further applauded the Jericho Businessmen Club for its developmental initiatives, including collaboration with the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), capacity-building programmes for youths, renovation of health centres, and the construction of boreholes.
He however encouraged the club to channel its influence toward securing reliable municipal water for Ibadan, which he described as a more sustainable solution.
The monarch also highlighted the participation of JBC members in the newly inaugurated Olubadan Economic and Investment Committee, responsible for driving the renaissance of Ibadanland and Oyo State.
“We have two or three members of JBC in the Olubadan Economic and Investment Committee, which shows my affiliation with JBC,” he said. “JBC and CCII are now working together. This committee is to bring back the renaissance of Ibadanland and Oyo State.”
In a historic moment during the event, the Olubadan was decorated as an Honorary Member of the Jericho Businessmen Club. The decoration was performed by JBC Trustees, past presidents, the current president, and Baba Bayo Oloye, former CCII President and Chairman of the Olubadan Coronation Committee.
Earlier in his welcome address, JBC President Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, FCA, paid glowing tribute to the Olubadan, describing him as a visionary leader championing economic renewal. Adegoke revealed that Ibadan currently has 64 moribund industries, including major establishments such as Exide Battery, Leyland, Ferodo, and Standard Breweries.
He praised the Olubadan’s Economic and Investment Committee of which JBC is a partner for its commitment to reviving these industries, creating jobs, and restoring Ibadan’s status as an industrial powerhouse.
The 3rd JBC Annual Socio-Economic Summit continues to position the club as a major stakeholder in shaping the future of Oyo State through technology, innovation, policy advocacy, and strategic partnerships.
