Akande Champions Ibadan Heritage Project, Flags Off Hall of Fame Initiative
By Adewale Owoade.
A governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Dr. Debo Akande, has unveiled a plan to establish an Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame aimed at preserving the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Akande, who serves as the Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and Executive Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde, made the disclosure during a foundation-laying ceremony held at Bode Amoo Hall, Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo.
The event was organised under the auspices of the 2026 Historical Tour Committee.
Speaking at the ceremony, Akande described the project as a forward-looking initiative designed to safeguard Ibadan’s legacy for future generations.
“This vision has been on my mind for a long time. It is not just about the present, but about building a legacy that will endure,” he said.
He lamented what he described as a widening gap between younger generations and the history of Ibadan, noting that many youths are increasingly unaware of the city’s contributions to Yoruba heritage and national development.
“Ask many young people today about notable figures in Ibadan’s history, and you may get little or no response. Yet, this city has produced great men and women who have excelled in various fields both locally and internationally,” he added.
Akande explained that the proposed Hall of Fame would serve as both a museum and a knowledge hub, documenting and showcasing the achievements of past rulers, warriors, professionals, and other distinguished indigenes.
“This project seeks to answer critical questions: where is our history documented, and where can people learn about the exploits of our heroes? It is about preserving our identity,” he said.
In his remarks, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief (Barr.) Sulaiman Ajewole, said the initiative was conceived to immortalise the legacies of Ibadan’s heroes and heroines.
Ajewole noted that the idea originated from a historical subcommittee of the council and would provide a platform to honour past rulers, warriors, philanthropists, politicians, and community leaders.
“Preserving history means documenting and celebrating those who contributed to the growth of Ibadan. This ensures their legacies are not forgotten,” he said.
He commended Akande for championing the initiative, describing him as a worthy ambassador of Ibadanland, and expressed confidence that the project would be completed within a short time.
Ajewole added that upon completion, the Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame would stand as a major cultural landmark in the city.