The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has launched the Ibadan Community Guards as part of efforts to strengthen security and enhance the investment climate across Ibadanland.
The inauguration, held at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, also featured the commissioning of the Ibadan Economic Investment and Business Development House.
Speaking at the event, Oba Ladoja said the newly inaugurated guards would complement existing security agencies in deepening community policing and improving safety across the city and surrounding communities.
He expressed confidence that the initiative would help curb criminal activities in Ibadanland and prevent the spread of banditry into Ibadan city.
The monarch also urged residents to remain vigilant and work closely with security agencies, stressing that the responsibility for security must be shared by all.
Also speaking, former Minister of Industry and Chairman of the Ibadan Economic and Investment Committee, Dr Onikepo Akande, said the committee was established to build a sustainable economic ecosystem capable of generating wealth, creating jobs, and restoring Ibadan’s place as a leading economic hub in the South-West.
Akande described the newly launched community security initiative as a visionary step designed to complement the government’s existing security architecture and guarantee safety for residents and businesses.
“No economy can attract investments without adequate security. Without peace, commerce cannot thrive,” she said.
She disclosed that the committee was inaugurated on October 23, 2025, with the mandate of laying a strong economic foundation for the future of Ibadanland, adding that it has since moved from consultations to the implementation of structured development plans.
According to her, the committee has developed a strategic framework aimed at mobilising N25 million through an Economic and Investment Summit that is expected to attract both local and foreign investors.
Akande said other key initiatives of the committee include the revival of moribund industries, the development of mineral resources into organised industrial production, the establishment of the Olubadan Jewellery Trade Centre in partnership with Oodua Investment Company, the promotion of agribusiness through cocoa plantations, and the strengthening of urban renewal programmes.
She explained that the newly commissioned Ibadan Economic Development and Investment House would serve as the operational headquarters for coordinating investments and driving the implementation of the committee’s programmes.
Akande further noted that the launch of Garri Ibadan reflects efforts to address immediate food security concerns, adding that economic growth must go hand in hand with social responsibility.
She commended the Olubadan for his foresight and courage in setting up the committee and called on Ibadan indigenes to support the initiative and the forthcoming economic and investment summit.
Dignitaries at the event included members of the Olubadan-in-Council, Engineer Dotun Sanusi, Oloye Taofeek Adegboyega, Chief Bode Amao, President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Barrister Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole, Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Security, Fatai Owoseni, as well as Mogajis, Baales, and other prominent sons and daughters of Ibadanland.
