Mosheojay★★★★★ — If you want to learn about the history of the Western empire through arts and artifacts, this museum is a good place to start.
Olaide B.★★★★★ — Lovely experience. The tour guide did an amazing job explaining the intricacies of each artwork. Important to note that the museum houses the famous Queen Idia
Idowu M.★★★★★ — It's a historic place in Ibadan built in 1929. It's the town hall used for various meetings then but it is now being used for very important meetings now.
Benjamin O.★★★★★ — It's a great tour destination. It's a colonial style built between 1925 and 1929. It holds an important historical symbol as it hosted important political events in Southwest Nigeria during the colonial era and until today.
The place is currently under renovation but you can still tour around the outside of the building. It also has an event center.
Dolapo O.★★★★★ — On the 4th of January, I visited the iconic Captain Bower's Tower affectionately called "Layipo" by locals in Oke-Are, Ibadan. As a native who has always heard about this historic spot but never made the time, I decided to go with my good friend, Eniola.
The entry fee was ₦1,000 per person (so ₦2,000 total for us). When we get inside, we had to rest a bit from the walk. But one downside is that there is no food or drink vendors around which is not ideal for thirsty visitors. We improvised with cold pito (a local drink made from millet and milk) from a nearby spot to cool down.
The tower is well-maintained for its age, the structure feels solid but the surroundings need work: the relaxation shed is dilapidated, the terrain paths are cracked, and some areas need more repairs. When I chatted with some of the tourists, they said they would happily pay more, provided that the amenities were upgraded.
While standing at where is regared as one of the city's highest points, we spotted major landmarks like The Cocoa House, University College Hospital (UCH), Lekan Salami Stadium, Liberty Stadium, Agodi Gardens, Oyo State Government Secretariat, Mapo Hall, and endless brown roofs stretching everywhere. It was breathtaking, peaceful and a perfect moment to appreciate Ibadan's rich history.
We met the local tour guide, Mr Adebayo Samuel. He explained that the top of the tower is one of the highest point in the state and it also marks its geographical centre as well. He made us understand that Captain Robert Lister Bower is the first British resident in Yorubaland. He was sent to Nigeria by Queen Elizabeth II in 1893 to put an end to the wars between the different kingdoms in Yorubaland, and he brought stability during colonial times. This reminded us of Ibadan's layered history, from being a city and home to prominent warriors in Yorubaland to a hub of civilization. He told us that the 60-foot tower was erected in 1936 in his honour.
Nkiruka P.★★★★★ — If you're not fit, you'll have to think twice about hiking the trail up this hill. 😄😄😄. We huffed and panted our way up the hill and were rewarded by the most breathtaking views of Ibadan old city.
The surrounding structures need some refurbishing but the Tower itself has been reasonably maintained.
The Tower commemorates Captain Robert Lister Bower, the first British Resident of Yorubaland (1893-97). It provides a 360-degree vista of landmarks like the Cocoa House, University of Ibadan, and Dugbe Market.
The walk down the hill (Oke-Are) was a lot less easier than the climb. It's a must-see in Ibadan!
Akinfenwa A.★★★★★ — It was enlightening, historic and well curated.
The museum and hall of fame offers a fascinating sight into our culture and history 😁
Alabere O.★★★★★ — Oodua Museum, perched high on the 23rd floor of the iconic Cocoa House.
Inside the museum, we were transported back in time. We learned about the artistry of the Yorubas before the colonial era from the weaving of clothes to the beats of ancient drums, to the symbolism of pots used in daily life. We also walked through the political history of Nigeria, seeing how past leaders helped shape the nation’s story.
As soon as we stepped to the back of the museum, I was stunned the panoramic view of Ibadan was simply breathtaking. From that height, the city unfolds like a living map, rusty rooftops blending with modern buildings, endless stretches of green, and the heartbeat of history flowing through it all.
folarin S.★★★★★ — Ancient and Old. But Historical with lots of Ibadan History. It has Cinema Halls and a Nigerian Brewery Sponsored Cafes. It has the biggest car park in the entire Oyo State
Ola-oluwa O.★★★★★ — The park was lovely and the staff were helpful. The museum’s small but it’s a meaningful nod to our culture and my long island cocktail totally made my day.
JOHNSON D.★★★★★ — It was a nice place but their food is expensive
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