A strong case for an Ibadan economic hub has been presented by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes as it outlined how the city can evolve into a leading economic force in Nigeria through coordinated development and cultural investment.
Speaking at a press conference in Ibadan, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Ajeniyi Ajewole, said the vision of an Ibadan economic hub is rooted in the city’s existing strengths and untapped opportunities.
The briefing was held at Ibadan House, Oke Aremo, to announce activities for the grand finale of the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival.
According to Ajewole, the event is not only about preserving tradition but also about driving development and economic relevance for the city.
Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, remains one of Nigeria’s largest urban centres with a long-standing role in trade, administration, and regional connectivity.
Ajewole stated that achieving an Ibadan economic hub would unlock employment opportunities for young people and significantly increase internally generated revenue for Oyo State.
He said:
“Ibadan possesses the capacity to emerge as a leading economic force in Nigeria.”
He explained that the cultural festival is structured to promote unity among indigenes and residents while also attracting investment and tourism into the city.
According to him, the annual celebration stimulates economic activities across multiple sectors, including trade and commerce, arts and crafts production, tourism and hospitality services
These activities, he noted, contribute directly to local economic development and reinforce the case for an Ibadan economic hub.
The council provided details of activities lined up for the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival, scheduled to climax on April 18 at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba.
Planned events include:
- Jumat service and church thanksgiving
- Medical outreach and distribution of palliatives
- Amala Day celebration
- Education and talent hunt programmes
- Youth conference and stage play
- Beauty pageant and business dinner
- Ibadan conference and march past
A key highlight is the “Ibadan Loni Fuji” talent show, designed to showcase local artists and expand cultural influence.
Ajewole noted that the involvement of corporate organisations, including sponsorship by First City Monument Bank, reflects growing private sector interest in the city’s development agenda.
As part of the event, four prominent Nigerians have been shortlisted for honours in recognition of their contributions to Ibadan’s growth and national development.
They include George Akume, Ishaq Oloyede, Abdulfatai Buhari, Adesola Ajayi
Ajewole said the honourees were selected for their service to humanity and contributions to the development of Ibadan.
Chairman of the planning committee, Gbolagade Akere, expressed optimism that the festival would not only preserve cultural heritage but also position Ibadan as a destination for tourism and investment.
He also called on individuals, families, and groups within and outside Ibadan to continue supporting initiatives that promote the city’s development.
The renewed push for an Ibadan economic hub highlights a deliberate strategy to combine culture, tourism, and economic planning as tools for urban development.
By leveraging its population size, geographic advantage, and cultural identity, stakeholders believe Ibadan can strengthen its position as a major economic centre in Nigeria.
The emphasis on festivals, investment attraction, and youth engagement suggests a model that integrates cultural heritage with economic growth.
