LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- A major cultural milestone is unfolding in Ibadan as influential leaders rally behind a new Historical Library Hall of Fame project aimed at preserving the city’s rich legacy for future generations.
At the centre of the spotlight is the planned Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame, which was officially launched during the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes’ (CCII) foundation-laying ceremony at Ibadan House in Oke-Aremo. The initiative is a project designed to document the stories of heroes, leaders, and achievers who have shaped the ancient city.
The event drew several dignitaries, including Agbaoye Kareem, Kola Daisi, Onikepo Akande, Adegboyega Sani, Adegoke Adeniran, and Yussuf Adisa, alongside members of the CCII executive who praised the project’s vision.
Leading his voice to the cause, the Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency, Debo Akande, said the initiative is deeply personal and long overdue. He described it as a state legacy that will allow generations experience the lives of those who contributed significantly to the land.
“This project is very significant for Ibadan and for me because it reflects something that has been on my mind for a long time. I have always desired to see a remarkable initiative that would serve as a lasting legacy in this state. I come from a family rooted in service, and I have always been interested in how we can document the history of Ibadan, not just in written form, but in a way that allows people to see and appreciate the contributions of individuals who have shaped the city,” he said.
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According to Akande, the Hall of Fame will change the trend of undocumented or difficult to access history by creating a central space where both residents and people in the diaspora can learn about the city’s impact locally and globally.
“If you ask today about notable figures from Ibadan who have made significant contributions, many people may not have that information readily available. We have individuals who have excelled in various fields locally and internationally, yet there is no central place where their achievements are properly documented,” he added.
Meanwhile, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Ajeniyi Ajewole, explained that the project builds on existing efforts to honour the city’s past heroes. He added that erecting new buildings will give more room for history to be stored and preserved.
“If you look around Ibadan House, you will see statues and images of our past heroes and heroines, past rulers, warriors, philanthropists, politicians, and Iyalodes. This is part of our effort to preserve their legacy. However, the Hall of Fame project is intended to expand this concept by creating a more structured and enduring platform for documenting and celebrating outstanding individuals,” he said.
In addition, Ajewole revealed that the idea came from the council’s historical sub-committee. He expressed confidence that the project would be completed soon, bringing long-awaited recognition to deserving individuals.
“What we are witnessing today is the official launch of the project, and we are hopeful that, by the grace of God, it will be completed soon. Those who deserve recognition will be duly honoured,” he said.
Notably, Chairman of the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival, Moshood Akere, described the project as a lasting gift to the city.
“It is of great importance to Ibadan land. For someone to commit to funding a Hall of Fame project shows a deep love for the city. This project will stand the test of time and remain beneficial to generations to come,” he said.
While giving long-overdue recognition to those who built the city’s legacy, the project is expected to reshape how Ibadan’s story is told, creating a lasting platform where history, culture, and achievement are preserved for generations.
