The Jericho Businessmen Club (JBC), Ibadan, on Friday, November 21, 2025, held its 3rd Annual Socio-Economic Summit at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, innovators, and traditional authorities for a forward-looking dialogue on the theme: “Future-Ready Oyo State: Tech, Talent, and Transformation for a Thriving Tomorrow.”
In his compelling opening address, Oloye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, FCA, President of the Jericho Businessmen Club Ibadan, reaffirmed the club’s position as “the leading light of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes,” describing JBC as a body of exceptional professionals, entrepreneurs, and technocrats whose collective strength places the club above peer associations in Ibadanland. He highlighted the remarkable growth of the summit, noting that the huge turnout recorded in previous editions necessitated moving this year’s event to a larger venue.
Adegoke expressed gratitude to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde whereas His Imperial Majesty, Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Olubadan of Ibadanland applauding the Kabiyesi’s unwavering support for the club and confirming that the Kabiyesi despite a tight schedule and ongoing promotions of senior chiefs in the Olubadan line prioritized attending the summit. He emphasized that such commitment underscores the strategic importance the administration places on JBC’s contributions to Oyo State’s socio-economic landscape.
The JBC President also paid glowing tribute to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Olubadan of Ibadanland, whom he described as a visionary traditional ruler leading a bold push for economic revival. Adegoke revealed that Ibadan currently has 64 moribund industries, including major establishments like Exide Battery, Leyland, Ferodo, and Standard Breweries. He lauded the Olubadan’s newly inaugurated Economic and Investment Committee of which JBC is a partner for its commitment to revitalizing these enterprises, creating jobs, and repositioning Ibadan as an industrial powerhouse.
Speaking on the inspiration behind this year’s summit theme, Adegoke explained that the 2025 edition builds on the gains of previous summits, which focused on agriculture, industrialization, and affordable electricity—key pillars for development. For 2025, JBC shifted attention to technology and digital transformation, which he described as the next frontier for unlocking economic prosperity and future opportunities for youth.
The sub-themes for this year’s summit include:
• Technological Disruption and Workforce Evolution
• Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship
• Education and Skills for the Future
• Policy and Governance in the Digital Age
Adegoke emphasized that JBC’s work extends beyond conferences, citing the Future-Ready Youth Digital Bootcamp, an initiative that equips young people with digital skills, workplace readiness training, and entrepreneurial mindset development in an era dominated by artificial intelligence and disruptive technologies.
According to him, JBC remains committed to partnering with professional bodies, development groups, and the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes to mobilize economic resources for Ibadanland and Oyo State. He reiterated that the summit serves as a solutions-driven platform aimed at influencing public policy, strengthening the digital economy, and driving inclusive prosperity.
He concluded by expressing full confidence in the panel of experts carefully selected for the event, assuring participants that their contributions would help shape actionable strategies for Oyo State’s technological and economic advancement.
The President then formally welcomed all guests to what he described as a “fruitful and productive summit,” reiterating JBC’s unwavering commitment to the socioeconomic progress of Ibadanland and Oyo State.
The event featured prominent guests including government dignitaries, industry executives, scholars, and innovators, reinforcing JBC’s position as a leading force in regional economic advocacy.
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