FIC Report (Oyo State) – The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja on Tuesday unveiled over 5,000 community security personnel, to be known as ‘Ibadan Security Guards` as part of a major initiative to strengthen safety and enhance investor confidence across Ibadanland.
While inaugurating the new security outfit, Oba Ladoja said that the newly formed outfit would work alongside existing security agencies to improve policing and make Ibadan safer.
He expressed confidence that the initiative would deter criminal activities, strengthen the city’s security architecture, and create a more conducive environment for investment.
The monarch also warned criminal elements to steer clear of Ibadanland, noting that the initiative signals a renewed commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
The event, which was held at the Olubadan Palace in Ibadan, the capital city of the Oyo State, featured the formal inauguration of Security personnel and other sub-committees tasked with reinforcing security across the eleven local government areas of Ibadanland.
The inauguration ceremony also witnessed the commissioning of the Ibadan Investment and Economic Development House, a strategic hub for driving economic growth in the city.
Speaking at the event, former Minister of Industry and Chairperson of the Olubadan Economic and Investment Committee (OEIC), Onikepo Akande, emphasised that sustainable economic growth is closely tied to effective security and deliberate investment strategies.
She described the newly inaugurated Ibadan Security Guard Corps as a visionary initiative designed to complement existing government security agencies and provide a safer environment for businesses and residents.
“No economy can attract or sustain investment without adequate security,” Akande said, noting that the initiative offers a practical model for economic transformation at both sub-national and national levels.
Akande explained that the OEIC, inaugurated on October 23, 2025, has moved beyond consultations to implementing structured development plans.
According to her, the committee has outlined strategies to mobilise at least N25 billion through an Economic and Investment Summit, attract local and foreign investors, and revive moribund industries.
Other key initiatives include the development of mineral resources into organised industrial production, establishment of the Olubadan International Jewellery Trade Centre in partnership with the Oodua Investment Company, promotion of agribusiness through cocoa plantations, and strengthening urban renewal programmes.
She added that the newly commissioned Ibadan Investment and Economic Development House would serve as the operational headquarters for coordinating investments and implementing these initiatives.
Highlighting the importance of security, Akande said the Ibadan Guards initiative reflects a broader understanding that development must be built on safety.
“Security is the foundation of development. Without peace and safety, commerce cannot thrive and families cannot flourish,” she stated.
In addition to security measures, she noted that 5,000 bags of garri were distributed as part of efforts to address immediate food security concerns, stressing that economic development must be accompanied by social responsibility.
The dignitaries present included members of the Olubadan-in-Council, Dotun Sanusi; the Asiwaju of Ibadanland, Bode Amoo; and the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Ajeniyi Ajewole, among other prominent sons and daughters of Ibadanland.
Report by
Moses Oyelade,
AD(I&PR). FIC, IBADAN.
