The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes in line with the activities of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival has awarded and decorated Chief (Mrs.) Bolupe Aminat Aramide with the prestige title Most Patriotic Ibadan Indigenes. The decoration took place last week Thursday, 25th July 2024 at Ilaji Hotel & Resorts during the Business Luncheon, one of the major activities in the recently concluded cultural festival. While presenting the award, the President-General of Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Chief Barr Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole stated that the award is in recognition of her contribution to human and community development both home and abroad.
Chief (Mrs.) Bolupe Aminat Aramide is the CEO of Boldan Commercial with object of International Money transfer, importer and exporter of luxury goods and general merchandise. She is also CEO of Boldan management training. Furthermore, she was installed as Bada Iyalode of Ibadanland by his HRM Oba Salihu Akanmu Adetunji, Ajeogungunniso 1. In August 2017, she was appointed as the General Ambassador in Europe by Central Council of Ibadan indigenes (CCII).
Chief (Mrs.) Bolupe Aramide is also a celebrated philanthropist who has improved the lives of people through her foundation known as ‘BOLDAN Charity Foundations’ through award of scholarships to indigent students. Chief (Mrs.) Bolupe Aminat Aramide is currently the Grand Matron of Ibadan Rubber Footwears and National Matron Organization for Youth Empowerment (OYE) Nigeria, Oyo State Chapter.
The Ibadan Vanguard Sisters under the leadership of Dr. Ayo Monsurat Alaga, the Ajia Iyalode of Ibadanland has felicitated with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin Ige Olakulehin 1 on the successful completion of this year’s Ibadan Cultural Festival Week.
“On behalf of the Ibadan Vanguard Sisters, I congratulate our Kabiesi, his Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin Ige Olakulehin 1, the President -General of Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Chief Barr Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole and the Chairman of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Week, Balogun Gaphar Ojetola on success recorded in this year’s festival”
“This year’s festival will go down in history as one of the best in history, and this is made possible through the quality leadership provided by the CCII administration led by Chief Barr Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole, we at Ibadan Vanguard Sisters recognise your efforts and commitment to the development of Ibadanland”
The Vanguard Sisters also applauded the Governor Makinde for his tremendous contribution towards the completion of the Olubadan Modern palace, and equally felicitate with him on the award given to Her Excellency, Engr. Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes.
“We appreciate our pillars of support Senator Sarafadeen Abiodun Alli – Grand patron; Alhaja Khadijat Lajide- Grand matron; Oloye Abiola Arulogun – Royal Mentor; Olori Erelu Adetutu Adedipe Adebowale – Mayoress; Hon. Waheed Akanbi Biiro- Mayor; Alhaji Kabir Olasupo – Peace Ambassador; Hon. Benedict Akika – Pathfinder and other notable pillars of support, we appreciate you all”
“Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” —Marcel Proust
Yes, you made us happy and you made our souls blossom.
That this year 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival has come and ended in glory is enough reason to show gratitude to God almighty and everyone who has participated and, or contributed to the success story. You are all the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.
To His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde FNSE, DSC, GSSRS and the First Lady, Engineer Olufunke Tamunominini Makinde who was conferred with the Most Outstanding Wife of Ibadanland, MOWI and His Excellency , the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Barrister AbdRaheem Adebayo Lawal, who was also conferred with the Most Outstanding Friend of Ibadanland, MOFI during the Grand Finale at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium has become a landmark history making in any Ibadan Cultural Festival anniversary ever experienced. To God be the glory.
To our Kabiyesi, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin 1 , and the Olubadan -in – Council, the Iyalode in Council, the Mogajis, Baales and all the Senior Chiefs, we thank you all.
Particular mention must be made of His Excellency, the Former Governor of Oyo State and Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja whose sponsorship of some of our programs as well as his physical attendance and participation at this year’s festival was highly remarkable. K’eepe O Baba To Her Excellency, wife of the former Governor, Chief Mrs Olayinka Mutiat Ladoja, Grand Ambassador of Ibadan Culture and Special Guest of Honour of the events whose singular efforts contributed immensely to the success story of this year’s celebration, I will forever remain grateful and on behalf of us all, I say Thank you Ma. A yoo maa ri yin ba O. Ase To His Eminence, Alhaji Chief Dawood Makanjuola Akinola De-Damak, Aare of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta, Aare of Ibadanland and Grand Commander of Ibadan Culture GCIC whose generous donation of an 18 Seater Bus and huge cash donation towards the success of this year’s Ibadan Cultural Festival is commendable and much appreciated. The Jagun Olubadan, Apesin Ola, Sir Chief ‘Dotun Sanusi , Chairman and CEO Ilaji Hotels and Resorts supported us with the use of the entire Ilaji Facilities for this year’s Sports Finals and the Business Luncheon programs. We can not quantify these wholesome package in monetary value. Thank you Sir and God will continue to elevate you. I must not forget to mention the uncommon support received from the Chairman, Solution FM and the Aare Onibon Balogun of Ibadanland, Oloye Taofeek Adegboyega Adegoke FCA whose physical appearances as well as huge monetary supports has helped tremendously in setting the bar higher for this year’s Cultural Festival. Oloye Taofeek Adegboyega Adegoke, E se pupo, A dupe O. The President, Ibadan Descendants Union USA, who is also the Ajia Olubadan of Ibadanland did not only led a powerful tream from the USA, he also attracted big support as well as his physical presence in virtually all our programs, Oloye Abiola Iyiola, K’ara O le O. To all our worthy and deserving Awardees from Grand Ambassadors of Ibadan Culture to the Fellowship awardees, through Business Luncheon to the Merit awards at the Grand Finale, we congratulate you for being considered to be so celebrated and honored by Ibadanland. Congratulations to you all. To the Baba-lojas, Mama Lojas, the Warlord Families, all affiliate clubs and associations home and abroad, we congratulate you all for taking ownership of the whole event as the hosting authority. Congratulations and thank you all.
The degree of media coverage we enjoyed at this year’s events is massive and phenomenon. We thank all the media houses in Ibadanland and beyond. God bless you all.
To our individual sponsors as well as corporate partners, we remain indebted to you and pray that our relationship will blossom into permanent investment that will be beneficial to both sides. I must not fail to honour our religious leaders and particularly His Eminence, Prelate Sunday Ola Makinde whose fatherly support can not be over emphasised. E se pupo Baba. E.ma pe fun wa O. To all the Past President Generals and members of the BoT CCII , thank you for being there always for us.
To all the members of this year Planning Committee whose labour, dedication, commitment and financial support can only be imagined, I owe you a lot and pray that God almighty will compensate you beyond any human expectations.
To the Chief Barrister Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole CCII EXCO led administration for believing in our capacity and strength, we appreciate and congratulate you on this achievement. Permit me however to register my profound gratitude to this man I call ‘President General Oloriire’ for supporting me throughout on the assignment which he gave me for without such immense support we couldn’t have recorded this massive success story. My PG Sir, E se pupo. A dupe O. Olorun yoo maa ran Eyin naa l’owo. Aamin
For all that you have committed to the success of this year Ibadan Cultural Festival celebration, please accept our gratitude and we pray for God abundance mercy on us and on Ibadanland.
Lastly, had my wife and children refused to release me for the service of my fatherland, how would I have the opportunity to play this little role. Kikelomo Ajike , Asaaju Iyalode of Ojeniranland and my beautiful children, Ibadanland appreciate you all. Thank you
To God almighty once again. E se O Baba.
E se pupo, A dupe O.
Balogun Gaphar Ojetola Chairman, 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival
The newly appointed Special Assistant on Finance and revenue to the Chairman Egbeda Local Government, Hon. Semiu Akinlabi has expressed his heartfelt appreciation to God and his Leaders.”I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Hon. Busari Olayemi and Alhaji Lukman Akinpelu Adesina for their unwavering support, invaluable contributions and belief in my capabilities. Your guidance and encouragement have been instrumental throughout the selection process, and I am deeply appreciative of your trust in me which has greatly influenced my appointment”I’m deeply honored and grateful to have been appointed as the Special Assistant to our Local Government Chairman, Hon. Sikiru Sanda Oyedele, This opportunity to serve our Local Government in such a significant capacity fills me with immense pride and dedication”Furthermore, he appreciates Deacon Omoniyi Adegbite for his guidance and pray that May God answer all his secret prayers. In exhibiting the Omoluabi virtues, he recognised the commitment of Hon. Sikiru Sanda in improving the quality of governance in the Local Government and he reiterated his commitment to the vision of the Chairman to ensure that he succeed. “As I step into this new role, I am committed to working diligently to fulfill the responsibilities entrusted to me and to contribute positively to the development of our Local Government.
Oh Lord our creator, we come before you this day with praises and gratitude for taking us this far in our planning for celebration of our birthplace, Ibadanland. Thank you Oh Lord. We beseech your name in all that we do and we commit ourselves and families under your protection. We pray that you take absolute control of the entire week so that we return all glory to you at the end of this year Ibadan Cultural Festival. We appreciate our governor and the First Lady, His Excellency, Engineer Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde FNSE, DSC, GSSRS and Her Excellency, Engineer Oluwakemi Tamunominini Makinde for all their support on the program and for all other developments in Ibadanland. May the good Lord continue to guide them, Amen .
We congratulate and felicitate with His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin 1 and pray that his reign is peaceful and blissful for all of us. Amen
On behalf of the entire 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, I congratulate the President General CCII, Alhaji Chief Barrister Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole and the entire Executive council CCII for all their support for this committee since inception.
Lastly, our immense thanks and gratitude goes to all our fantastic donors and sponsors and we pray their blessings shall never diminish. God will continue to increase them in blessings. Ibadan is grateful.
From all of us at the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, we say a big thank you as we celebrate this year Cultural heritage of Ibadanland as we commence with Amala/Fuji Festivals today.
Ile Ibadan yoo gbe Gbogbo wa O. Aamin
God bless Ibadanland God bless Oyo State God bless Nigeria.
Balogun Gaphar Ojetola Chairman, 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee.
Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes on Monday paid homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin in continuation of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival.
“In his message, the Chairman of 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, Balogun Gaphar Ojetola delivered the congratulatory messages on behalf of the President General CCII, Chief Barrister Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole and his executives and informed the Kabiyesi that the President General was on another Ibadan assignment to the UK.
He said the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee were paying homage to Kabiyesi on behalf of the President General CCII and the entire Executive Council.
Following the presentation of the final program of events to the Kabiyesi, Balogun Ojetola also register appreciation on behalf of the President General and the entire Ibadan people to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Oluwaseyi Abiodun MAKINDE FNSE, DSC, GSSRS for his achievement on the recently commissioned Aafin Ile Ibadan.
He reiterated the commitment of the President General CCII to mobilise His Imperial Majesty to the new palace immediately on his return to the country.
His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin 1 praised almighty God for the uncommon mercy God has bestowed on him. He also thanked His Excellency the Executive Governor for his love and support for Ibadanland in general. The Kabiyesi praised the Ajewole led executive council for their uncommon passion and the mission to place Ibadanland in its right leadership position.
Kabiyesi expressly blessed the visiting 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee members and pledged to support and participate actively in the programs of Ibadan Cultural Festival.
Prince Sunmbo Olakulehin gave the votes of thanks before the visiting team were given a generous reception.
Southwest Nigeria pulsates with entrepreneurial energy. From bustling marketplaces like Agbowo Market in ibadan, Bodija market ibadan, idumota in the land known for its excellence, Sasa market in Osogbo and myriads of SMEs to the high-tech startups in Lagos, SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) are the backbone of the region’s economy. But what does it take to succeed in this vibrant yet challenging landscape? Let’s delve into the opportunities and hurdles faced by SMEs in southwest Nigeria, drawing inspiration from local success stories and offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Access to Finance: Securing funding remains a major roadblock for SMEs in Southwest Nigeria. Despite the critical role these enterprises play in driving economic growth and job creation, they often struggle to obtain the necessary financial resources . High-interest rates imposed by banks and financial institutions make borrowing expensive and almost impossible. Additionally, the loan application process is often cumbersome and bureaucratic, discouraging many small business owners from even attempting to secure funding. This lack of access to affordable finance can stifle growth, prevent expansion, and limit the ability to invest in new technologies or hire additional staff. For many SMEs, the financial barriers become insurmountable, leading to stagnation or even business failure. Click here to learn more: ResearchGate: Challenges to Nigerian SMEs – Expert 1 (SMEDAN South-West Director viewpoints) Infrastructure Constraints: The operational efficiency of SMEs in Southwest Nigeria is severely hindered by poor infrastructure. An unreliable power supply is one of the most significant issues, as frequent power outages disrupt production schedules, increase operational costs due to the need for alternative power sources like generators, and reduce overall productivity . Moreover, poor transportation networks complicate the logistics of moving goods and services, both for sourcing raw materials and delivering finished products to markets. Inadequate access to modern technology further exacerbates these challenges, as it limits the ability of SMEs to adopt efficient business practices, engage in e-commerce, or utilize advanced manufacturing techniques. These infrastructure constraints collectively pose significant obstacles to the growth and competitiveness of SMEs in the region .
Limited Business Skills: A significant barrier to the growth of SMEs in Southwest Nigeria is the limited business skills among entrepreneurs and their staff. Many small business owners lack formal training in critical areas such as marketing, finance, and human resource management . This skill gap can result in poor business planning, inadequate financial management, ineffective marketing strategies, and suboptimal human resource practices. Without the necessary skills, SMEs struggle to innovate, attract and retain customers, manage their finances efficiently, and expand their operations. Investing in business education and training programs tailored to the needs of small business owners could help bridge this gap and unlock the growth potential of SMEs in the region . Opportunities Abound: Large Market: Nigeria boasts a massive population with a growing middle class, presenting a vast potential customer base for innovative products and services . (Click to learn more: https://www.nigerianstat.gov.ng/) Government Initiatives: The Nigerian government and regional bodies like the DAWN Commission offer various programs to support SMEs, including access to loans, training workshops, and business development services [5, 6]. (Cliick to learn more: https://dawncommission.org/) E-commerce Boom: The rise of e-commerce platforms provides SMEs with a cost-effective way to reach a wider audience. (Click to learn more: https://www.jumia.com.ng/) Cultural Richness: Southwest Nigeria’s unique culture fosters a thriving creative industry, with opportunities for businesses in fashion, music, and art. (Click to learn more: https://creativeconomy.britishcouncil.org/places/nigeria/). Venturing Beyond Ibadan: The entrepreneurial spirit extends throughout southwest Nigeria. Here’s a glimpse into some of the vibrant marketplaces you might encounter in different regions: Lagos: Home to the iconic Alaba International Market, a titan in the electronics industry. This sprawling complex caters to a global clientele, showcasing the scale and ambition of Lagos’s business scene. Abeokuta: Known for the Itoku Market, Abeokuta is famous for its rich cultural heritage. Itoku Market is the heart of the indigenous Adire textile industry. Adire is a traditional Yoruba fabric dyed in unique patterns, and this market is the go-to destination for both locals and tourists seeking these beautifully crafted textiles. The market also offers a variety of other goods, including traditional arts and crafts, making it a hub of cultural and economic activity. Osogbo: In Osogbo, the Ayegbaju International Market stands out as a major commercial center. This market is known for its diverse range of products, including agricultural produce, clothing, and household items. It serves as a vital trading post for the people of Osun State and beyond. The Ayegbaju International Market also plays a significant role in the local economy, providing livelihoods for numerous traders and artisans. Akure: Akure boasts the bustling Oba Adesida Market, which is a focal point of commercial activities in Ondo State. This market is renowned for its variety of fresh produce, grains, and traditional Yoruba spices. It is a key destination for both wholesale and retail buyers, and it plays an essential role in the food supply chain of the region. The vibrancy of Oba Adesida Market reflects the agricultural richness and trading acumen of the local populace.
Oyo: In Oyo, the Akesan Market, also known as the “king’s market,” is a historic and culturally significant marketplace. It is one of the oldest markets in the region and is famous for its wide array of goods, ranging from traditional clothing and jewelry to local foodstuffs and crafts. The market serves as a central point for trade within the ancient town and attracts buyers and sellers from neighboring areas, maintaining its reputation as a vital economic hub. These marketplaces highlight the dynamic and diverse nature of commerce in Southwest Nigeria, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit.
Writer: JEREMIAH SOLOMON JONATHAN EMAIL: digitaljerry246@gmail.com
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has announced plans to host 2024 Amala Day and Fuji Festival, a celebration of Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage.
The event, scheduled to take place on 24th July 2024, promises to be a vibrant showcase of the city’s unique traditions, music, and cuisine.The festival will kick off with an opening prayer, followed by the recitation of the Ibadan Anthem and recognitions.
The President-General of CCII, Chief Barr Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole, will deliver the opening speech, while the Chairman of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Week, Balogun Gaphar Ojetola, will give a welcome address. The Chairman of the Occasion will then declare the program open.The highlight of the event will be the “Taste of Amala” segment, where distinguished guests, including the President-General, the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Chairman, and the Chairman of the Occasion, will savor the delicious Ibadan delicacy, Amala.
The FUMAN music group will provide entertainment throughout the event, with performances before and after the “Taste of Amala” segment. The Royal Father of the Day is His Excellency, the former Governor of Oyo State, Agba Oye Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja.The Special Guest of Honour is the Deputy Governor of the State.Other distinguished dignitaries expected to grace the occasion include, Aare Onibon Balogun, Chief Taofeek Adegboyega Adegoke, Chairman/CEO of Solution FM and many other esteemed guests.The festival will also feature decorations, donations, and an appreciation of sponsors and donors. Remarks will be given by Chef Mrs Idowu Olaide Lawal GAIC, followed by a grand finale of music and entertainment.Awardees for this year are; Alhaji Rasheed Ayinde Merege, Alhaji Tajudeen System, Alhaji Taye Adebisi Currency, Alhaja Amudalat Iyadunni, President Food Vendors Oyo State, Alhaji Omolewa Tomiwa , PMS Chairman Oyo State and Head of Hair Beauticians Oyo State.
The event will feature a cultural display at Mapo Hall, showcasing a variety of food options until noon. The grand finale will take place at Ibadan House, Oke Àrèmo, where the awardees will be honoured for their contributions to the community.The Amala Day and Fuji Festival promises to be a memorable celebration of Ibadan’s cultural heritage, promoting unity and pride among the people of Ibadan.Mark your calendars and join the celebration
Chief Mrs Abegbo Lawal on behalf of no woman no Nation Renewed Hope has felicitated the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin 1, on becoming the substantive 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Mrs Lawal in her congratulatory message on behalf of her group also commend High Chief Rasheed Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan for his brilliancy and vibrancy on issues that affect Ibadan land.
“On behalf of no woman no Nation Renewed Hope, we rejoice with the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin 1, and pray for a successful reign for Kabiesi.”We equally acknowledged and appreciated our father, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rasheed Ladoja for his steadfastness, uprightness, brilliancy and vibrancy when it comes to issues that affect Ibadanland, we are proud to have him as our father, and pray to God to continue to speare his life for good things”
The leader of Market women in Oyo State, Alhaja Saratu Aduke Konibaje has congratulated the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland on his coronation and presentation of Staff of Office.
Alhaja Saratu described Oba Owolabi Olakulehin ascension as fulfilment of destiny, and pray to that Kabiesi reign will be long and Ibadan will know it for better.
“I felicitate our reverend Kabiesi, today’s is historic in the history of Ibadan and the Olakulehin family as a whole, it signify a new beginning, and as we rejoice with Oba Owolabi Olakulehin we pray to God to grant him a long and peaceful reign”
