The President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Ajeniyi Ajewole, has stated that Ibadan possesses the capacity to emerge as a major economic hub in Nigeria.

He made this known during a press conference ahead of the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival, held at Ibadan House, Oke Aremo. According to him, harnessing the city’s potential would create employment opportunities for youths and significantly boost internally generated revenue in Oyo State.

Ajewole noted that the festival goes beyond cultural celebration, serving as a platform to promote unity among indigenes and residents while showcasing the city’s economic prospects.

He also announced that four distinguished Nigerians, George Akume, Ishaq Oloyede, Abdulfatai Buhari, and Adesola Ajayi, have been shortlisted for honours at the grand finale of the festival, in recognition of their contributions to society and Ibadan’s development.

He explained that the festival is strategically designed to attract tourists, encourage diaspora participation, and stimulate economic activities such as trade, arts, crafts, and tourism-related ventures.

The grand finale is scheduled for April 18, 2026, at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, with activities including cultural showcases, youth programmes, talent hunts, business events, and musical performances.

Ajewole added that the annual celebration highlights Ibadan’s rich heritage while positioning the ancient city as a viable destination for investment and economic growth in Nigeria.