By Our Correspondent
National News – The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) says Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, has the potential to become one of Nigeria’s major economic hubs if its resources and opportunities are properly harnessed.
The President-General of the council, Ajeniyi Ajewole, made this known on Wednesday during a press briefing held at Ibadan House in the Oke Aremo area of Ibadan North Local Government Area.
Ajewole explained that the city’s economic potential would create jobs for young people and significantly increase internally generated revenue for the state.
He spoke while announcing activities for the grand finale of the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival scheduled for April 18, 2026, at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex in Adamasingba, Ibadan.
According to him, the annual festival is designed not only to celebrate Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage but also to promote unity among indigenes, attract tourists, and stimulate economic growth.
He said the event brings together residents, diaspora members, and investors who contribute to the development of the ancient city.
Ajewole further revealed that four prominent Nigerians have been shortlisted for honours during the festival’s grand finale.
They 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 of Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Adesola Ajayi.
He said the honourees were selected because of their contributions to national development and their support for the progress of Ibadan through public service and other initiatives.
The festival programme includes several cultural and social activities such as a Jumat service, church thanksgiving, Amala Day, medical outreach, youth conference, education and talent hunt, stage drama, beauty pageant, business dinner, and a march-past by affiliate clubs.
One of the major highlights will be the Ibadan Loni Fuji talent show aimed at promoting local music talents and giving emerging artists an opportunity to perform on a larger stage.
The Oluyode family will also be honoured for its historical role as one of the founding warrior families of Ibadan.
Organisers added that the festival has received corporate backing from First City Monument Bank, a development expected to strengthen tourism promotion, cultural preservation, and economic investment opportunities in the city.
