Prominent sons and daughters of Ibadan have taken a major step toward preserving the rich history of the ancient city with the unveiling of a proposed Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame.
The initiative was formally launched on Tuesday during the foundation-laying and groundbreaking ceremony organised by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) at Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency and Executive Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Dr. Debo Akande, described the project as a timely and significant effort aimed at documenting the contributions of distinguished Ibadan indigenes.
According to him, the historical library and Hall of Fame will serve as a permanent repository of the city’s heritage and achievements, helping present and future generations understand the legacy of Ibadanland.
Akande noted that the idea resonates strongly with his long-held personal desire to see the city’s rich history properly preserved and celebrated.
“This project is very significant for Ibadan and for me personally because it reflects something that has been on my mind for a long time,” he said.
“I have always wanted to see an initiative that will leave a lasting legacy in this state. Coming from a family deeply rooted in service, I believe it is important that we document the history of Ibadan not only in books but also in ways that allow people to visually appreciate the individuals who have shaped the city.”
He explained that the proposed Hall of Fame would provide a platform to recognise and celebrate Ibadan indigenes who have excelled in various fields across Nigeria and internationally.
Akande lamented that despite the city’s long history and its many accomplished sons and daughters, there is currently no central repository where their achievements are documented for public access.
If you ask many people today about notable figures from Ibadan who have contributed immensely to national and global development, the information is not readily available,” he said.
We have countless individuals who have distinguished themselves across different professions and industries, yet there is no single place where their legacies are preserved and celebrated.”
He added that the new historical library and Hall of Fame would fill that gap by documenting these achievements and making them accessible to researchers, residents, and members of the Ibadan diaspora.
Also speaking at the event, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Ajeniyi Ajewole, expressed appreciation to Akande for supporting the project and helping bring the vision closer to reality.
Ajewole explained that the Hall of Fame is designed to complement existing efforts at Ibadan House, where statues and images of past heroes and heroines already stand as reminders of the city’s illustrious past.
He said the new project would expand those efforts by creating a structured system for recognising outstanding individuals who have made remarkable contributions to Ibadanland and society at large.
If you walk around Ibadan House, you will see monuments and images of our past heroes and heroines—past rulers, warriors, philanthropists, politicians, and Iyalodes,” Ajewole said.
This Hall of Fame project will build on that foundation by providing a more organised and enduring platform for documenting and celebrating these exceptional personalities.”
He revealed that the initiative originated from the council’s sub-committee on historical matters, adding that the council hopes the project will be completed within a few months.
What we are witnessing today is the official launch of the project, and by the grace of God we expect it to be completed soon so that those who deserve recognition can be honoured appropriately, he added.
The Chairman of the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival, Chief Moshood Akere, also commended the initiative, describing it as a major development for Ibadanland.
Akere praised Akande’s commitment to supporting the project, noting that such efforts demonstrate a deep sense of pride and love for the city.
For someone to commit resources to a project like this shows genuine passion for Ibadanland,” he said.
“This Hall of Fame will stand the test of time and remain beneficial to generations yet unborn.”
Several dignitaries attended the ceremony, including the Co-Chief Launcher, Chief Agbaoye Kareem; the Royal Father of the Day and Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Kola Daisi; the Mother of the Day and former Minister of Industry, Chief (Mrs) Onikepo Akande; the Elegbeda of Egbeda, Oba Adegboyega Sani; Mrs Adegoke Adeniran; Prince Yussuf Adisa; and members of the CCII executive.
The proposed Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame is expected to become a major cultural and educational landmark, serving as a centre for historical research and a place where the achievements of Ibadan’s great sons and daughters will be permanently celebrated.
