Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, the Group Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL), has announced a landmark collaboration with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, aimed at revitalizing the economic landscape of the Southwest’s largest city.
During a high-level visit to the Oke-Aremo palace, the OICL leadership lauded Oba Ladoja’s visionary approach, highlighting the monarch’s professional background as a chemical engineer and Harvard Business School alumnus as a catalyst for modern industrial growth.
Core Pillars of the Collaboration
The partnership focuses on transforming stagnant assets into economic engines and fostering a business-friendly environment in Ibadan.
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SME Development: Recognizing that small businesses drive 90% of global economic activity, OICL pledged targeted support for local entrepreneurs in collaboration with the palace.
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Asset Optimization: A key proposal involves converting Aje House into a dedicated economic hub to attract genuine domestic and international investors.
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Infrastructure & Synergy: Oba Ladoja challenged the conglomerate to look beyond traditional sectors, suggesting regional synergy to develop massive infrastructure projects like refineries and independent rail systems.
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Mineral Resources Protection: The monarch emphasized the need for Odu’a states to take ownership of local mineral deposits to prevent foreign exploitation and ensure regional wealth retention.
Key Milestone: The May 6 Economic Summit
To move beyond rhetoric, the Olubadan Economic and Investment Committee is scheduled to meet with Odu’a Investment Company on May 6, 2026. This session will focus on:
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Navigating joint economic initiatives.
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Reviewing the “Aje House Economic Hub” proposal.
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Synchronizing efforts between the DAWN Commission and OICL to reclaim the Southwest’s historical status as a regional leader.
A Legacy of Preservation
The visit also served as an acknowledgment of Oba Ladoja’s historical contribution to OICL. Ashiru credited the monarch’s principled stance during his tenure as Governor of Oyo State (2003–2007) as a pivotal factor in the conglomerate’s survival and current stability.
“Odu’a Investment Company remains irrevocably committed to Ibadanland. We will not relent until every idle asset is productive and every willing son and daughter of Ibadan finds dignified work to do.” — Otunba Bimbo Ashiru
Comparative Vision: Tradition vs. Modernization
| Entity | Primary Focus | Economic Contribution |
| OICL | Investment & Management | Revitalizing idle assets and SME support. |
| Olubadan Palace | Leadership & Custodianship | Providing a secure, stable environment for trade. |
| Ibadanland | Commercial Hub | Hosting the Cocoa House HQ and regional trade. |
The Olubadan reiterated that the palace’s goal is not to compete with the investment company but to complement its efforts, ensuring the Southwest remains the premier destination for business in Nigeria.
