The Board of Odu’a Investment Company Limited and some of its subsidiaries, led by Group Chairman Otunba Bimbola Ashiru and the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Abdulrahman Yinusa, paid a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Senator) Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, at the Oke Aremo Palace in Ibadan on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.
The visit was both a congratulatory call and an opportunity to discuss areas of collaboration to advance economic development in Ibadanland and the South West region.
In his remarks, the Otunba Ashiru described the Olubadan as a leader with a clear interest in economic development, noting that the palace had already initiated contact on areas of partnership. He emphasised the importance of small and medium-scale enterprises as drivers of economic growth globally and affirmed Odu’a’s readiness to support initiatives in that space in collaboration with the palace.
Otunba Ashiru spoke on Odu’a’s transformation into a competitive and commercially driven conglomerate. He noted that among regional institutions established in the same era, Odu’a has remained resilient and continues to thrive. He highlighted ongoing projects including the redevelopment of Premier Hotel and the enhancement of Cocoa House, both of which are central to efforts to restore Ibadan’s position as a major economic centre. He extended an invitation to Kabiyesi to the forthcoming relaunch of Premier Hotel and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustained engagement with Ibadan’s economic leadership.
Responding, Oba Ladoja acknowledged the history and significance of Odu’a Investment and reflected on its foundation in the vision of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Ladoke Akintola. Drawing from his experience as a former shareholder governor, he shared personal insights into the company’s journey and the broader achievements of the Western Region.
He commended the Board and Management for the progress made in repositioning the company and encouraged continued focus on investments that deliver tangible economic impact. He noted that Odu’a has the capacity to compete at the highest levels and stressed the importance of retaining control over regional assets amid growing external interest.
In his remarks, the GMD/CEO, Mr Abdulrahman Yinusa, thanked the monarch for the audience and noted that the visit reflects the importance Odu’a places on alignment with key regional stakeholders. He stated that the company’s current phase is focused on execution, with clear priorities around asset optimisation, capital discipline and partnerships that unlock long term value.
Following the engagement at the palace, members of the Board proceeded to the Premier Hotel site to inspect the progress of work ahead of its planned relaunch.