Members of Ibadan Community of Cotonou, Benin Republic, on Sunday, converged on Midombo Stadium, Akpakpa, for a lively and culturally rich maiden Ibadan Day
The gathering drew a wide spectrum of attendees, including traditional leaders, media professionals and members of the Ibadan diaspora.
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, represented by Aare Ago Balogun of Ibadan, Chief AbdulLatif Ibikunle, called for sustained unity among indigenes and urged them to work in harmony with the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).
He stressed that alignment with the council would ensure better coordination of diaspora activities, particularly in relation to the annual Ibadan Day celebration in Nigeria.
Delivering her goodwill message, wife of Olubadan, Queen Abibat Ladoja praised the initiative, describing it as a milestone in diaspora engagement.
She commended the unveiling of Ajorosun magazine, noting that it would serve as a repository for the history, values, and achievements of Ibadan people abroad.
In a similar vein, the Alajase of Abesan in Porto-Novo, Oba Rafiu Atanda, urged members to maintain exemplary conduct, reminding them that their behaviour reflects not only on themselves but also on the image of Ibadanland and Nigeria at large.
Setting the tone for the event, Chairman of the organising committee, Mr Kabiru Olaide, explained that the celebration was designed to strengthen bonds among indigenes, deepen cultural consciousness, and reinforce a collective identity within the diaspora community.
A defining moment of the occasion was the recognition of outstanding individuals whose contributions have positively impacted society.
Awards were presented to distinguished Nigerians within the diaspora and in Benin Republic, including the General Manager of Pensioners FM, Ibadan, Oyo State, Otunba Babatunde Tiamiyu, as well as notable industrialists and other eminent personalities.
The event also featured an array of musical performances that energized the audience, with fuji icon Saheed Osupa leading the lineup, supported by Cotonou-based artistes such as Laredo Fuji, Idera Anobi, and hip-hop artiste Giomak, rounding off the celebration on a high note.
