CCII GETS IT RIGHT: A VOTE OF CONFIDENCE IN CHIEF AJENIYI AJEWOLE AND THE 2027 IBADAN CULTURAL FESTIVAL- Tunji Oladejo

 The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has, once again, demonstrated why it remains the foremost custodian of the history, culture and unity of Ibadanland.* 

The reappointment of Mogaji Moshood Gbolagade Akere Beyioku as the Chairman of the 2027 Ibadan Cultural Festival Week is a decision that deserves commendation. It is not just a reward for a job well done in 2026. It is also a clear signal that CCII, under the leadership of its President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, is intentional about continuity, excellence and the preservation of our heritage.

The 2026 edition of the Ibadan Cultural Festival Week set a new benchmark. Under Mogaji Akere’s stewardship, we saw increased participation, richer cultural exhibitions and programmes that truly projected the values, art and enduring spirit of Ibadan people. The festival did what culture should do: it brought our people together at home and in the diaspora, reminded us of who we are and showed the world the pride of Ibadanland.

To retain leadership that delivered such results is the hallmark of visionary governance. And that is exactly what we are seeing under Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole. Since assuming office, the CCII leadership has prioritised unity, inclusiveness and strategic planning. The August 2026 General Assembly where this reappointment was announced reflects an engaged Council that listens, evaluates performance and makes decisions in the best interest of Ibadanland.

We at The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) note with satisfaction that CCII is moving beyond ceremonial gatherings to initiatives that have real socio-economic impact. By building the Cultural Festival into a platform for cultural tourism, youth engagement and diaspora connection, the Council is helping to reposition Ibadan as not just an ancient city, but a modern cultural destination.

We commend Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole and the entire CCII Executive Council for this purposeful leadership. The confidence reposed in Mogaji Akere is well placed and we are confident that the 2027 edition will surpass previous ones in quality, innovation and inclusiveness.

As stakeholders in the progress of Ibadan, TPFI pledges its support to CCII. We urge all Ibadan sons and daughters, traditional institutions, market leaders, youth groups and friends of Ibadanland to rally behind the 2027 Festival. Let us make it bigger, let us make it a tool for peace, unity and sustainable development.

Culture is our identity. When we celebrate it well, we secure our future.

Once again, congratulations to CCII and to Mogaji Akere. Ibadan is proud of you!