By Esther Onyegbula

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has endorsed the forthcoming international conference on artificial intelligence organised by Dominican University Ibadan, pledging royal support for the global academic gathering scheduled to hold in May.

The endorsement came when a delegation from the university, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacinta Opara, represented by the Dean of Science, Professor Tim Odiaka, paid a courtesy visit to the monarch at his palace in Ibadan.

The delegation sought the monarch’s backing for the International Interdisciplinary Conference on Artificial Intelligence and the Human Future, slated for May 6 to 7, 2026, with a focus on the ethical and societal implications of emerging technologies.

Speaking during the visit, Odiaka said the institution was established in 2016 to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the Dominican Order, making it the first Dominican university in Africa. He noted that the visit was part of efforts to deepen collaboration with the traditional institution while securing royal endorsement for the conference.

He described the Olubadan’s leadership as pivotal to the peace and stability enjoyed in Ibadanland, adding that the university remains committed to contributing to community development through research and policy advisory support.

The delegation formally requested the monarch to serve as Royal Host for the conference, themed: “Artificial Intelligence and the Human Future: Ethics, Communication, and the Voices of Women and Youth at the Margins.”

Responding, Oba Ladoja accepted the request, describing the theme as timely and relevant in the face of rapid technological advancement. He commended the university’s growing academic reputation and its contributions to scholarship within and outside Nigeria.

The monarch, however, stressed the need for increased public sensitisation on artificial intelligence, urging the institution to ensure wider awareness of the conference and its implications for society. He also called for stronger collaboration between the university and other research institutions in Ibadan to accelerate development in the city.

Oba Ladoja expressed optimism about the institution’s future, noting its potential to evolve into a global hub that integrates technological innovation with cultural heritage. He further lauded the standards of Catholic education, drawing comparisons with institutions he encountered in Belgium.

Looking ahead, the monarch offered his blessings as the university prepares for its combined fourth and fifth convocation ceremonies scheduled for December 2026, while urging students to uphold the responsibilities associated with academic privilege.

Earlier, the university highlighted its recent intellectual engagements, including the 2026 Aquinas Day Colloquium, which explored intersections between scripture and African cultural identity.

Other members of the delegation included the Deputy Registrar, Mrs. Titilayo Abijo; Fr. Francis Chiadi, OP; Sr. Mary Christine Ugobi-Onyemere, IHM; Engr. Dr. Omokehinde Deji-Akinpelu; Mr. Stephen Eki; and Mr. Precious Anthony.

The visit ended with an exchange of goodwill, as the Olubadan reaffirmed his support for the university’s vision and its role in advancing education and development.