IBADAN — A delegation from Dominican University, Samonda, Ibadan has paid a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, seeking royal support for its forthcoming international conference on artificial intelligence and the future of humanity.

The delegation, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacinta Opara, who was represented by the Dean of Science, Professor Tim Odiaka, visited the monarch at the Olubadan Palace in Ibadan.

According to information gathered, the visit was aimed at strengthening ties between the university and the traditional institution, while also securing royal endorsement for the International Interdisciplinary Conference on Artificial Intelligence and the Human Future, scheduled to hold from May 6 to 7, 2026.

The planned conference follows the university’s successful hosting of its 2026 Aquinas Day Colloquium, widely regarded as a landmark intellectual gathering that explored new perspectives on scripture and African cultural identity.

Addressing the monarch, Prof. Odiaka highlighted the institution’s origins, noting that Dominican University was established in 2016 to mark the 800th anniversary of the Dominican Order, making it the first Dominican university in Africa. He commended the Olubadan’s leadership, describing it as instrumental in sustaining peace and stability in Ibadanland.

The palace meeting featured a blend of historical reflection and personal insights, as the Olubadan shared experiences from his time in public service, emphasizing the importance of balancing complex leadership decisions with the everyday needs of the people.

During the visit, 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.”

Prof. Odiaka reaffirmed the university’s commitment to community development, pledging that its academic and research expertise would remain available to support the palace in policy advisory and developmental initiatives.

In his response, Oba Ladoja accepted the request and described the conference theme as both timely and significant. He praised the university’s growing reputation, noting its contributions to academic excellence in Nigeria and beyond.

The monarch also urged the institution to ensure broad public awareness of the conference, stressing the need to educate society on the implications of artificial intelligence. He encouraged greater collaboration between the university and other research institutions in Ibadan to drive development within the city.

Reaffirming his support, the Olubadan expressed optimism about the university’s future, envisioning its emergence as a global hub that blends technological advancement with cultural heritage. He also commended the high standards of Catholic education, drawing parallels with institutions he had encountered in Belgium.

Looking ahead, the monarch offered his blessings as the university prepares for its combined 4th and 5th convocation ceremonies scheduled for December 2026, reminding students of the responsibilities that come with academic privilege.

The delegation included senior university officials such as Mrs. Titilayo Abijo, Deputy Registrar; Fr. Francis Chiadi, OP; Sr. Mary Christine Ugobi-Onyemere, IHM; Engr. Dr. Omokehinde Deji-Akinpelu; Mr. Stephen Eki; and Mr. Precious Anthony.

The visit concluded with expressions of goodwill, as the Olubadan thanked the university for its continued support and reaffirmed his commitment to promoting its vision