Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke receives Award of Honour for his contribution to the construction of the Mogajis’ historic hall, reaffirming his commitment to preserving Ibadan’s cultural heritage.
Chief Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, FCA, the Oota Balogun of Ibadanland and 2027 governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State, has received an Award of Honour from the Association of Mogajis of Ibadanland in recognition of his contributions towards the completion of the Gbongan Mogaji (Ile Eke) at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan.
The recognition was presented during the official commissioning of the historic edifice on Saturday, November 14, 2026, in the presence of traditional leaders, distinguished personalities and other stakeholders who contributed to the successful completion of the project.
Adegoke announced the recognition in a Facebook post, expressing profound gratitude to Almighty God, the Olubadan of Ibadanland and the entire Association of Mogajis for considering him worthy of the honour.
For the Ibadan-born businessman and philanthropist, the recognition represents more than an award. It is an acknowledgement of his commitment to the preservation of the city's cultural identity, traditional institutions and historical heritage.
His involvement in the project is not without a documented financial contribution. In January 2025, Nigerian Tribune reported that Adegoke donated ₦10 million towards the construction of a befitting hall and office complex for the Mogajis of Ibadanland. The donation was made during a visit to the Olubadan Palace, where he was received by the leadership of the association. Tribune Online
The Ile Eke project, also known as the Association of Mogajis of Ibadanland Multipurpose Hall, was conceived as a befitting institutional centre for the association's meetings, gatherings and other important engagements. Beyond providing a functional space for traditional leadership activities, the facility represents a collective investment in strengthening the traditional administrative structure and unity of Ibadanland. Egalitarian Voice +1
A Celebration of Ibadan's Cultural Heritage
Adegoke described the Olubadan Palace as much more than a traditional residence, stressing that it remains a priceless symbol of Ibadan's history, identity, cultural heritage and collective pride.
He expressed appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to an institution that represents generations of Ibadan's traditional leadership, noting that preserving such heritage is essential for the benefit of generations yet unborn.
The occasion was also made memorable by the celebration of the birthday of the revered Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I. The celebration was organised by the Mogajis to honour the monarch, whose actual birthday had taken place while he was outside the country.
The event further reinforced the relationship between the Olubadan Palace, the Mogajis and other prominent stakeholders committed to the development and preservation of Ibadanland.
In his message, Adegoke reiterated his belief that development must go hand in hand with cultural preservation. He maintained that traditional institutions remain invaluable pillars of society and that supporting them is a responsibility he intends to continue embracing.
He also expressed profound appreciation to the Olubadan and the Association of Mogajis for the recognition, describing himself as humbled by the honour.
Commendations Pour In
Following his announcement, supporters and well-wishers took to the comment section to congratulate the Ibadan high chief, applauding his contributions and expressing confidence in his political ambition ahead of the 2027 Oyo State governorship election.
One supporter wrote: "You deserve the best all the time, sir. Our incoming Oyo State governor comes 2027, bi idinilahi."
Another congratulatory message read: "Congratulations, sir. Best wishes always."
Another supporter added: "More power to your elbow. Congratulations."
The recognition adds to Adegoke's public profile as a businessman, philanthropist and traditional titleholder whose interests extend beyond business and politics to community development and cultural preservation.
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, the honour also provides another opportunity to highlight his engagement with traditional institutions and community development initiatives.
For Adegoke, however, the greatest reward appears to be the opportunity to contribute to the preservation of Ibadanland's heritage and leave behind something meaningful for future generations.
Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, FCA, is the Oota Balogun of Ibadanland and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Oyo State for the 2027 election.
Source: Facebook post by Chief Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke; Nigerian Tribune; and reports on the Ile Eke project.
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