The Non-Indigenes Traditional Council of Oyo State (NITCO) has been described as a unifying body that fosters peaceful coexistence among non-indigenes in Ibadanland while contributing to the city’s progress and economic growth.
Chief Aliu Lamidi Balogun, Baale of the Igbira Community in Ibadan and an ambassador of the Igbira people in Oyo State, emphasized this during an exclusive interview with journalists in Ibadan, Oyo state capital.
He highlighted NITCO’s role as a bridge between non-indigenes and the Ibadan host community, ensuring harmony and mutual development.
Established eight years ago under the leadership of non-indigenous elders, including the late Eze Alex Anozie and Chief Aliu Lamidi Balogun, NITCO was created to serve as a platform for non-indigenes to integrate, build relationships with Ibadan indigenes, and contribute to the region’s development.
Chief Balogun, who has served as Baale of the Igbira community for 18 years, lauded the Ibadan people for their hospitality. He particularly appreciated successive Olubadans for their magnanimity towards non-indigenes, allowing them to thrive in Ibadanland.
He described the current Olubadan of Ibadan ,Oba Owolabi Akinloye Olakuleyin as a leader of humane disposition, fostering an inclusive environment where all residents, regardless of origin, can pursue their livelihoods peacefully.
Chief Balogun credited the late Eze Alex Anozie as one of NITCO’s founding fathers and his personal mentor. He described Anozie as a forthright and selfless leader who envisioned an egalitarian society.
“Under his guidance, NITCO was established to promote unity, ensure good conduct among non-indigenes, and contribute to Ibadan’s peace and progress,” Baale Igbira said of late Anozie
According to him, the organization actively collaborates with Ibadan’s leadership, supporting governance, community initiatives, and cultural integration.
He said, NITCO has also gained recognition from past and present administrations, including those of the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi, the late Olubadan Saliu Adetunji, the late Olubadan Lekan Balogun, and the current Governor Seyi Makinde. Chief Balogun acknowledged the Makinde administration’s efforts in engaging NITCO in state activities and governance.
Despite its achievements, Chief Balogun urged the government to extend more support to NITCO.
He appealed for employment opportunities for youth, women empowerment programs, scholarships, and grants for children of non-indigenes. He also called for better facilitation of NITCO leaders to improve their welfare and contributions to society.
He said following the passing of Eze Alex Anozie, NITCO remains steadfast in its mission, adding that Chief Friday Okokoniko now serves as the chairman, with senior members acting as advisers.
Chief Balogun reassured that NITCO is not a partisan or confrontational group but a body dedicated to promoting peaceful coexistence and inclusivity in Ibadanland.
