Baales are traditional heads of various Ibadan towns and villages. They act as local chiefs who oversee specific towns or districts within the Ibadan metropolitan area. They function as the primary representatives of the Olubadan in these communities, handling local governance, land disputes, and cultural activities.

Baale’s primary role includes maintaining order and stability within their respective communities, representing their areas in the larger council of chiefs, and facilitating community development projects and initiatives.

The Baale of Ibadanland play an essential role in the traditional governance and cultural preservation of the region. As custodians of local tradition and leaders of their communities, they are integral to maintaining the cultural fabric and social harmony of Ibadan. The continuous evolution of their role highlights the dynamic nature of traditional leadership in modern society. The Baale have specific responsibilities within their communities, serving as traditional heads who oversee local governance and cultural affairs.

As of the most recent information, Ibadanland has around 400 Baale. This number can vary slightly due to the creation of new settlements, re-organisation of existing communities, or political and administrative changes.