The Chief Executive Officer of Copacapana Group, Chief Ahmed Ajibola, has called on young people to take a more active role in preserving and promoting Ibadan’s cultural heritage.
Ajibola made the appeal when he led his team on a courtesy visit to the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, at his Bodija residence in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Speaking during the visit, the hospitality entrepreneur congratulated Oba Ladoja on his forthcoming coronation, describing him as a leader with the vision to strengthen Ibadan’s cultural identity.
He lamented that many young residents and students in Ibadan are disconnected from the city’s history and traditions.
“There are so many stories about Ibadan that people don’t know,” Ajibola said. “By the nature of my work in hospitality, I interact with many young people and I see the gap. Students come to Ibadan, study for years, and leave without learning anything about our culture. This shouldn’t be the case.”
He noted that institutions like the University of Ibadan and Lead City University attract thousands of students annually, yet most leave without witnessing major cultural expressions such as masquerade festivals and traditional rites.
According to him, platforms like tourism and entertainment can help bridge that gap while boosting economic growth for the ancient city.
Responding, Oba Ladoja commended Ajibola for his passion and stressed the need for youth involvement in cultural revival.
“It is the youth who will sustain our heritage,” the Olubadan-designate said. “They must take pride in Ibadan’s traditions and at the same time introduce innovations that will keep our culture relevant in today’s world.”
The monarch also urged stakeholders to use modern platforms to present culture in ways that appeal to younger generations, noting that culture and development should go hand in hand.