Ibadan sons and daughters resident across the United States of America have renewed their commitment to the development of their ancestral city, reaffirming plans to complete the long-awaited 100-bed medical centre project being undertaken by the Ibadan Descendants’ Union, USA (IDU-USA).

The renewed commitment was made at the 13th Biennial Convention of the IDU-USA held in Rosemount, Minnesota, from September 17 to 20, where members and delegates from chapters across the United States also elected a new National Executive Council to steer the affairs of the organisation for the 2026–2028 tenure.

The convention, held under the theme, “Together for Ibadan’s Growth: Empowering Our Roots, Inspiring Our Future,” provided a platform for delegates to deliberate on issues affecting the organisation and the development of Ibadanland, including community projects, financial administration, youth engagement, the Ibadan House project and the future direction of the union.

At the election, Dr Bolaji Adisa emerged as the new National President, while Mr Shola Bolomope was elected Vice President. Oloye Mutiu Adebayo emerged as General Secretary, with Alhaja Lola-Jim elected Assistant General Secretary.

Other members of the new executive include Alhaja Abiola Ajibade as Iyalode; Alhaja Lawal, Treasurer; Mr Sobur, Assistant Financial Secretary; Mr Kazeem, Chief Whip; Pastor Onifade, Auditor; Alhaja Hadrat Azeez, Social Secretary; and Mr Akeem Aremu, Public Relations Officer.

The immediate past National President, Oloye Abiola Iyiola, will continue to serve the organisation in an ex-officio capacity.

The convention also paid tribute to a departed member, Alhaja Oginni, with delegates observing a minute of silence in her memory at the opening session.

Discussions at the convention centred largely on the financial sustainability of the union, convention logistics and the implementation of development initiatives targeted at improving the welfare of Ibadan indigenes both in Nigeria and in the diaspora.

A major focus of the deliberations was the proposed IDU-USA 100-bed Medical Centre for Ibadan, a project conceived as one of the union’s major contributions to healthcare development in the ancient city.

Delegates expressed their determination to press ahead with efforts to bring the project to completion, signalling a renewed resolve by Ibadan indigenes in the United States to translate their commitment to their ancestral home into sustainable development projects.

The convention also underscored the importance of strengthening the relationship between Ibadan indigenes in the diaspora and institutions and traditional authorities at home.

Speaking at the convention, the immediate past president, Oloye Abiola Iyiola, expressed appreciation to Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I; and the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), under the leadership of Barrister Sulayman Ajewole, for their contributions and efforts towards the progress and development of Ibadan.

The new executive council is expected to build on the achievements of the outgoing administration while advancing the union’s development agenda and strengthening the bond between Ibadan indigenes in the United States and their homeland.