Our Legacy
Founded in 1976, Ibadan Social Group emerged as Nigeria's premier social organization,
bridging generations while preserving Ibadan's rich cultural heritage through disciplined social engagement.
🌍 Historical and Social Context
The Ibadan Social Group (ISG) emerged in the mid-1970s, a period of major transformation in Nigeria. Following the end of the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), the country entered a phase of reconstruction, modernization, and renewed social confidence. Ibadan, already known as a center of education, administration, and culture, became a melting pot for professionals, academics, senior civil servants, businessmen, and technocrats.
At the same time, many young Nigerians who had studied in the United Kingdom, United States, and other parts of Europe were returning home. These individuals had been exposed to structured social clubs, alumni associations, and gentlemanly social traditions abroad. On returning to Nigeria, they desired a similar environment — one that combined refined social interaction, friendship, dignity, and cultural pride, without losing touch with Yoruba values and Ibadan heritage.
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1976
🧠 Founding and Early Vision
The Ibadan Social Group was founded in 1976 by a group of like-minded professionals, many of whom had known one another through secondary school alumni networks, professional circles, and family connections. They were mostly educated elites from respected institutions such as Ibadan Grammar School, Government College Ibadan, and King's College Lagos.
The founding members envisioned a non-political, non-religious social club that would promote friendship, encourage decent organized social interaction, provide a forum for relaxation and intellectual exchange, and uphold discipline, respect, and dignity in social life.
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1978
🏛️ Formalization and Institutional Structure
As membership increased, the group recognized the need for structure. A decisive meeting was held at the residence of Mr. Akanni Asuni, where members agreed to transform informal gatherings into a formally registered organization. Key milestones included drafting a formal constitution, adopting the name "Ibadan Social Group," and establishing a biennial executive system with elected officers.
This structure helped ISG grow into a stable and respected organization, promoting accountability, orderliness, and democratic leadership every two years.
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1980
🧑🤝🧑 Membership Philosophy and Values
From inception, ISG placed strong emphasis on quality rather than quantity. Membership was by invitation only, with candidates carefully screened to ensure they shared the group's values, demonstrated good character, and had the capacity to contribute positively.
Initially exclusively male (reflecting social norms of the time), membership was kept at more than 200 active members to ensure close relationships and strong interpersonal bonds. Core values included relationship, respect for elders and tradition, discipline, integrity, and social responsibility.
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1985
🎉 Activities and Social Life
The Ibadan Social Group became known for its well-organized and tasteful social activities, including monthly general meetings, anniversary celebrations, end-of-year parties, family social events, and cultural evenings. The group also provided support for members during weddings, funerals, births, and major life milestones.
ISG events were characterized by decorum, elegance, and mutual respect, setting the group apart from casual social clubs and establishing its reputation as a premier social organization.
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1990
🏢 Permanent Secretariat
As the group matured, the need for a permanent home became evident. This led to the acquisition of a dedicated property at No. 27, Jibowu Crescent, Iyaganku GRA, Ibadan. This location became the official meeting venue, a symbol of stability and legacy, and a hub for social interaction and continuity.
The permanent secretariat represented the group's commitment to long-term presence and provided a physical space that embodied the values and aspirations of the Ibadan Social Group.
Our Legacy
🌱 Legacy, Continuity, and Relevance
For nearly five decades, the Ibadan Social Group has remained relevant and respected, successfully bridging generations. The group has sustained unity among members over decades while preserving Ibadan social culture and promoting disciplined social engagement.
Key achievements include the creation of a lifelong support network and successful adaptation to social changes while maintaining founding ideals — making ISG one of Ibadan's most enduring elite social organizations. The group continues to serve as a model of how traditional values can coexist with modern social dynamics.
50
Years of
Excellence
Active
Members
🌟 Core Values
Relationship
Fostering lifelong relationships and mutual support
Respect
For elders, tradition, and cultural heritage
Discipline
Upholding decorum and order in all activities
Integrity
Maintaining ethical standards and accountability
