Following the death of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, traditional activities have commenced for the installation of his successor, with former Oyo State Governor and Otun Olubadan, High Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, set to return to Ibadan next week to join the process that will likely culminate in his coronation as the 44th Olubadan.

Royal Succession Begins with Drummers’ Movement

In keeping with Ibadan’s revered succession customs, royal drummers known to pledge loyalty to the reigning monarch have relocated to Ladoja’s Bodija residence, symbolically affirming his status as the next Olubadan.

The movement of the drummers is a deeply significant tradition in Ibadan chieftaincy culture. It signals the beginning of the transition process and was similarly observed in March 2024 following the death of Oba Lekan Balogun, when the drummers moved to the residence of Oba Olakulehin, who was next in line at the time.

Ladoja’s Expected Return and Succession Procedure

A trusted palace source who spoke to Punch confirmed Ladoja’s imminent return:

“You know Oba Ladoja was not in town when the news of the late Olubadan was announced. However, Baba is coming back to Ibadan next week. Notable dignitaries have been calling to commiserate with him on the demise of the late Kabiyesi. He will be back to facilitate the traditional process.”

The succession, governed by a unique rotational chieftaincy system, will see Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, the Balogun Olubadan and most senior chief on the Balogun line, formally nominate Ladoja as the new monarch. His nomination will then be seconded by the Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole.

The Olubadan-in-Council is expected to meet for the official deliberation at the newly completed Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan North Local Government Area.

A Former Governor and Statesman to Ascend

Born on September 25, 1944, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja is not only a revered traditional chief but also a former governor of Oyo State and a prominent Nigerian statesman. His ascension to the throne marks a historical moment where politics and tradition meet, strengthening the sociopolitical fabric of Ibadan.

Following the council’s endorsement, the Oyo State Government will receive his nomination for ratification, after which he will be formally installed and presented with the staff of office, officially becoming the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Mourning Period and Tributes to Oba Olakulehin

A 21-day mourning period began on Tuesday in honour of the late Oba Olakulehin, who passed away in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, after a brief illness at a private hospital in the Jericho area of Ibadan.

Oba Olakulehin’s death has sparked a wave of tributes from within and beyond Ibadan, as community leaders, traditional rulers, and politicians reflect on his legacy of service and dignity.

In a media landscape where perception shapes policy and storytelling strengthens national pride, Sandra Njoku-Samuel is emerging as one of Nigeria’s most influential cultural voices.

Currently serving as the Media Strategist to the Honourable Minister on Media & Communications at the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Sandra is using the power of media to reposition Nigeria’s cultural assets and global tourism presence.

More than a strategist, Sandra is a cultural bridge-builder—turning festivals into international narratives, meetings into diplomatic milestones, and social media into a real-time tool for national rebranding.

From Event Usher to National Media Strategist

Sandra’s rise to prominence is a powerful example of grit, grace, and growth. Her early days as an event usher and brand ambassador for major names like MTN and Red Label sharpened her professional poise. Later, her stint on the runway with DCC trained her in visual aesthetics—skills that would prove vital in her creative journey.

She took her first professional steps as a clerk at Alston Company in Port Harcourt, before climbing the ladder to serve as Executive Assistant to three Honourable Ministers and three Directors-General in the culture and tourism space. These experiences shaped her understanding of public service, protocol, and communication strategy.

Pageantry also played a pivotal role. Competing in the Miss ECOWAS and Calabar Carnival Queen contests gave her a platform to discover her voice and advocate for cultural unity.

A Strategic Voice in the Ministry of Culture and Tourism

In her current position, Sandra supports high-profile engagements, cultural diplomacy missions, and official press briefings. Her work goes beyond writing releases—she crafts narratives that resonate with both local and international audiences.

“She doesn’t just write for headlines; she writes for heritage,” a colleague at the Ministry remarked.

Sandra is a behind-the-scenes powerhouse, coordinating storytelling campaigns, media outreach, and real-time coverage of the Ministry’s programmes across social platforms. With over 46,000 followers across Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, her influence extends far beyond traditional media.

Building a Multifaceted Empire: Drachibrand

Beyond public service, Sandra channels her creativity into Drachibrand, a multi-arm brand that mirrors her vision for purposeful enterprise:

Drachibrand (Styling & Creative Direction): Known for high-end coordination of campaign shoots, music videos, and celebrity visuals. Sandra has worked with Nollywood stars, politicians, and corporate leaders to produce compelling aesthetics.

Drachifashion: A local fashion brand focused on elegant women’s wear and handcrafted Ankara bags, celebrating Nigerian culture through fabric.

Drachi Fruits Hub: A premium fruit hamper business that promotes health-conscious gifting in homes and corporate settings.

Drachi Foundation: Her social impact initiative targets SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 4 (Quality Education) through scholarships, food drives, and youth empowerment.

Rising as a Youth Leader

Sandra was recently appointed Vice President of Jamie Pajoel International (JPI), Canada – Abuja Chapter, a global leadership organization focused on transformational youth engagement and public sector excellence.

She is also a certified Associate Member of the Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (AMITPN), cementing her place among the nation’s top tourism advocates.

A Leader with Heart and Purpose

Despite her achievements, Sandra remains grounded in humility and service.

“I may not have all the access, but I have grace, grit, and God. That’s my currency,” she says.

“I believe in the dignity of labour—because no work done in truth, purpose, and service is ever wasted.”

Sandra Njoku-Samuel is not just a strategist; she is a symbol of a new generation of visionary Nigerians—leaders who combine faith, creativity, and resilience to tell the country’s story with clarity and pride.

Nigeria has taken a major digital leap with the official launch of www.nigeriaeverywhere.com, a revolutionary platform designed to showcase the country’s vast cultural heritage, creative talent, and diverse tourist attractions to the global community.

Developed by the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, the platform is a key part of Nigeria’s long-term vision to establish itself as a leading global hub for arts, culture, and tourism by 2030.

Key Features of the Platform Include:

Interactive Cultural Map: A dynamic, user-friendly map highlighting cultural landmarks, heritage sites, and authentic local experiences across Nigeria.

Explore Nigeria: Insightful coverage of both traditional and modern artistic expressions.

Project Spotlights: Detailed overviews of landmark initiatives by the Ministry.

Share Your Naija: A user-generated content feature that allows Nigerians and foreigners to share photos, videos, and stories about Nigerian culture.

Cultural News Hub: Up-to-date news and events driving Nigeria’s cultural and creative transformation.

D30 Data Platform: Set to launch in late 2025, this platform will power data-driven cultural policy, providing open access to vital statistics and insights for investors and policy-makers.

Speaking at the launch, Hannatu Musa Musawa, Esq, Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, said:

“Nigeriaeverywhere.com is more than a website. It is a living, breathing expression of our national identity, a global window into the heart of Nigeria.”

“This platform gives our culture, creativity and heritage a digital stage to shine on the world map. It embodies President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places human capital, creativity and national pride at the centre of inclusive growth. For every Nigerian at home or abroad, and for everyone curious about the soul of this nation, NigeriaEverywhere.com is an invitation to rediscover who we are, what we create and what we can become together.”

A Cultural Ambassador and Economic Catalyst

Beyond being a digital showcase, the platform will serve as Nigeria’s official gateway to “Detty December”, the country’s globally recognised end-of-year cultural festival that turns Lagos and other major cities into vibrant cultural and entertainment hubs.

The D30 Data Platform, expected by the end of 2025, will be Africa’s most comprehensive creative economy data source, aimed at driving evidence-based policymaking, transparency, and international investment.

According to the Ministry, the platform positions Nigeria to be “Africa’s premier cultural destination” and supports its Destination 2030 (D30) strategic plan — an initiative designed to transform the country’s art, culture, tourism, and creative industries into vital engines for economic growth and national identity.