Mapo Hall is one of the oldest buildings in Nigeria located in Ibadan, Oyo State. Mapo Hall is a colonial building and it is the official City hall of Ibadan and Oyo state. It has witnessed lots of cultural and political events. It was built by the British Government during the colonial era. The ancient hall is located in the centre of Ibadan and is visible from almost every part of the city. Mapo hall has become a popular landmark in Ibadan and one of the most important places to visit. Over the years, Mapo Hall has become a symbol of love, strength and unity. The City of Ibadan Ibadan is the largest city in Nigeria and the third-largest city in Africa.Ibadan is the city of Hills and it is made up of seven different hills which form part of what is today known as Ibadan. One of the famous Hills that made up the geographical location is the Oke Mapo. From the hills, you will have a vantage view of the entire Ibadan. This place is strategically chosen during battles because it gives a view of the entire city. So that warriors can easily sight any attacking army from the hill. Mapo Hall was left to rot by previous administrations, it became dilapidated and abandoned due to lack of maintenance. However, in 2006 it was renovated by the then Governor of the state Governor Alao Akala. Mapo hall was recommissioned by the former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Chief Olusegun Obasanjo on 6th September 2007. Ever since, it has become the first choice for all social and political event. After its renovation, Mapo Hall Ibadan still maintains its original look. It has once again been made available for tourist visits and other ceremonial use. About Mapo Hall Mapo Hall was built by a Wellish Engineer named Robert Taffy Jones who was at that time a structural and road engineer. He was notable for his exceptional skills and he also built the popular Bowers Tower and Manor House in Iseyin Oyo State. Mapo hall was built by the British under the leadership of Captain W.A Ross the Resident of Ibadan province.The hall was completed and commissioned in 1929 by the British Governor and Commander in Chief of Nigeria Sir Creame Thompson. The Building The construction of Mapo Hall took four years from 1925 to 1929 and was valued at £24,000. The foundation was laid by Captain W.A Ross who was then The Resident of Oyo Province. However, it was commissioned by His Excellency Sir Graeme Thompson during the reign of Oba Shiyanbola Ladugbolu, who was then the Alaafin of Oyo and Chief Oyewole the Baale of Ibadan.It was built on 5,969 acres of land. The construction was modelled after St Georges’s Hall Liverpool in the United Kingdom. The building has the ancient British Architecture. Mapo Hall is still standing till date after almost a century as a relics of the colonial administrative rule in Nigeria. It reminds us of the political, historical colonial rule and the slave trade era. After almost a century things have hardly changed. Mapo Hall still stands as a centre for all government administrative task, a meeting place for politicians etc. A day in Mapo Hall will feature politicians carrying out their administrative task, residents coming to process one document or the other. Also, you may encounter couples getting married or seeking a divorce. In addition, you will always find market men and women doing their businesses and lastly tourist enjoying the beautiful view of this magnificent building. It has become a point for every political rally, protest, important events etc. There is a saying among the locals, a campaign is not complete without a visit to Mapo Hall. This building serves as an administrative building for the colonial rulers and its mini museum contains relics of chains used to hold tax evaders during the colonial rule, it also contains pictures and of past and present Obas in Ibadan. Mapo Hall has witnessed the coronation of many kings and since its construction. It has served as the official event ceremony for a coronation. This facility is currently owned and managed by Ibadan Local Government property Company Limited. A private company owned by the Ibadan Local Government. It is responsible of managing and maintaining the property.Mapo Hall is one of the oldest buildings in Nigeria. It has witnessed the presence of several prominent Nigerian leaders like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Mohammadu Buhari etc. How Safe is it? It is a safe place. It is owned by the Local Government, with a 24 hours security to ensure your safety. Feel free to explore this place. Things to do At Mapo Hall The hall offers a rich history of the people of Ibadan and the administration of the colonial leadership during that period. There are loads of activities to do here. If you are a lover of art, nature and history. Ibadan is the place to be. Here is a list of things to do: Plan a wedding: It has become one of the biggest destinations for weddings in Ibadan. Attend a show: It is also used for some shows within the city. Visit the mini-museum: You can learn more about the people of Ibadan and the hall from the mini-museum located within the facility. Take Photographs: Feel free to take lovely photographs. Learn about the people of Oyo: It will help you better understand the people, the culture and the landscape of the city of Ibadan. Order for a hot spicy amala: Your visit to Ibadan would not be complete without a hot spicy amala. Ensure you get a taste of this special delicacy. Location of Mapo Hall Mapo Hall is located on Oke Mapo (Mapo Hills) at Oje Area Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Mapo Hall is a few minutes walk from the Olubadan palace. It is opposite Balogun Oderinlo roundabout which is located in front of the Hall.
List of the Best Tourist Attraction Sites in The United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is one of the best tourist attractions in the world. This post focuses on the best tourist attraction sites in the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom (UK) has a diversity of fascinating tourist attractions. These attractions range from art museums and galleries, aquariums, beaches, castles, gardens, monuments and memorials, national parks, nature reserves, palaces, parks, seaside resorts, shopping centres, stadiums and zoos just to mention a few. The lists of tourist attractions in the United Kingdom (UK) varies from states to states and is easily accessed to tourist and visitors from all over the world. If you are thinking of what to do in the UK. If you need a list of the top tourist sites to visit in the United Kingdom. Here is a well-curated list for you. Here is a highlight of some of the Top Tourist attractions in the United Kingdom. Listed are the various tourism destination cities and states in the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom should make the list of top countries you should have on your bucket list. List of Best Tourist Attraction Cities in the United Kingdom London: London is one of the top tourist cities in the United Kingdom. The expansive capital city of the United Kingdom boasts plenty of attractions for your tourism delight. London holds first-hand information about the United Kindom’s rich history. London is the city of the Queen, the residence of the British monarch. If you are looking for the best tourist attraction sites in the United Kingdom, London will rank one of the highest. There are so many tourists attractions in London which include, The Natural History Museum, the magnificent Tower of London, the spectacular Tower Bridge on the banks of the River Thames, the former palace and prison, the iconic 1,000-year-old White Tower, with its fascinating displays of armour and weaponry, the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels, Buckingham Palace, Britain’s Royal home since the reign of Queen Victoria, the city’s Whitehall Road, Big Ben, the Parliament Buildings, Westminster Abbey, the famous Harrods department store, Trafalgar Square, home to iconic Nelson’s Column, the National Portrait Gallery and the Victoria and Albert Museum are some of the various attractions in London. London should be a top on your list of top places to visit in the United Kingdom. Manchester: Manchester is another popular tourist destination in the United Kingdom. It is one of the most popular cities in the United Kingdom. This city hosts one of the most popular airports in the United Kingdom. The City of Manchester is often the first point of arrival for most people visiting the United Kingdom. This is especially those planning to take their expedition through northern England, Scotland, or Wales. Some of the tourist attractions in Manchester City are the historic Town Hall, Manchester Cathedral, Manchester Art Gallery, Museum of Science and Industry, the amusing Chinatown, Castlefield which is popular for its well-preserved Victorian houses, canals, and Roman ruins, as well as the many old warehouses now serving as trendy shops, hotels, and restaurants. This city is also one of the best tourist attraction sites in the United Kingdom. Do not forget Manchester is also home to the popular football clubs Manchester City and Manchester United. Therefore Manchester is one of the top tourist cities in the UK you should have on your travel bucket list. Liverpool: Liverpool is also one of the most popular tourist attractions city in the UK. With many monumental buildings, graceful gardens, great museums and peaceful parks, Liverpool is just an hour away by rail and offers plenty of cultural splendour of its own and related attractions such as The Beatles Story in the renovated Albert Docks area, the famous Cavern Club as well as the former homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, the Merseyside Maritime Museum, the Walker Art Gallery, the Tate Gallery and the Museum of Liverpool. Liverpool is one of the ancient cities in the United Kingdom and it offers visitors and tourist beautiful scenery. This city is also ranked as one of the best tourist attraction sites in the United Kingdom. Edinburgh: This is Scotland’s Capital and one of its most appealing cities in the United Kingdom. The capital city of Edinburgh is also one of the United Kingdom’s most visited tourism destinations. The city is well known for its many well preserved historical buildings significantly the majestic Edinburgh Castle, a 13th-century royal fortress which is on the brink high above the old city on a rocky peninsula and features the famous One O’Clock Salute that takes place daily at Half Moon Battery, the Scottish Crown Jewels in the Royal Palace, broad Princes Street, popular for its shopping and dining, the Royal Botanical Garden, the National Gallery of Scotland, the Scottish National War Memorial and the famous Stone of Destiny also called the Stone of Scone. One can also easily sightsee some other significant momentous sites such as the Old Town’s Royal Mile’s fine architecture, boutique shops, cafés, restaurants, and art galleries, as well as the splendid old Palace of Holyroodhouse around the suburb of Edinburg. When you are looking for something to do in the United Kingdom try Edinburgh. Cardiff: This is one of the best places to sample a little of everything that Wales has to offer. The capital of Wales offers breathtaking scenery and daring outdoor adventures in the national parks and the ancient castles to give visitors and tourist an amazing time in the UK. Cardiff Castle which is located in the middle of the city and built on the ruins of an ancient Roman fort, the State Apartments, the Clock Tower, the Chapel, Banqueting Hall with its fine murals, the city’s many old Victorian shopping arcades around The Hayes, World of Boats, Cardiff Bay; one of the United Kingdom’s largest redevelopment projects, this vast area is now home to numerous exceptional restaurants, theatres, galleries, and shopping opportunities, many of which are housed in former warehouses on the lovely Mermaid Quay. Cardiff is also a top tourist
History of the First Primary School in Nigeria
First Primary School in Nigeria – Did you know that the first Primary School in Nigeria was located in Badagry? It is located in the coastal town of Badagry to facilitate communication and encourage formal education. There are so many tourist attractions in Badagry and it holds a lot of Nigerian history. History of the First Primary School in Nigeria Before the advent of Christianity and during the colonial era, there was a language barrier between the locals and the colonial masters. This often led to difficulty in understanding what the other party was saying and due to the language barrier, there were often conflicts between the colonial masters and the locals. To finally put an end to this, the first primary school in Nigeria was established. About the First primary School in Nigeria The first primary school in Nigeria was founded in 1843 in the town of Badagry. The school was named the Nursery of Infant Church which was later renamed as St. Thomas Anglican Nursery and primary school by Rev. Golmer of the Church Missionary Society (CMS). The school started at the site of the first storey building in Nigeria and was later moved to its current located at Topo Badagry. The relics of the old building still stands to date. After the introduction of the first primary school in Nigeria, this gave room for other primary schools to be established in Nigeria. The Anglican Church and the Baptist Church has stood at the forefront of improving education in Nigeria by establishing schools in Nigeria. Location of the First Primary School in Badagry The location of the first primary school in Nigeria is in Tapo Area of Badagry. Badagry is a coastal and an ancient town located close to the Benin Republic Border and it shares a border with Benin at Seme. Badagry was one of the earliest settlement of the colonial masters and a major commerce hub in the nineteenth and the twentieth century. About the First Primary School in Nigeria The classrooms were built to accommodate about 30 students each and contain a block of several other classrooms. Upon establishment of this facility, it has produced thousands of student over a hundred years and the relics of the building is still standing till date. Current State of the School The relics of the old institution is still there till today while the main school has been upgraded into a two-storey building. Our Review The building was not well maintained, the roofs are tearing apart, there are no tour guides in place, it is still a school but the section of the relics is currently not in use. Other Tourist Attractions Close to The First Primary School in Nigeria The first storey building in Nigeria The Point of no return The Agia Tree Monument The Slave market The Attenuation Well Mobee Museum The Seriki Abbass Museum Whispering Palms
Captain Bowers Tower – A colonial Monument in the heart of Ibadan.
Captain Bowers Tower Ibadan – Within the city of Ibadan lies a colonial Tower which is about sixty feet tall and has been in existence for over eight decades. The Bowers Tower was strategically located and serves as a watch Tower which gives a three-sixty view of the city of Ibadan located in Southwest Nigeria. It is one of the most popular tourist attraction in Ibadan. At the top of Bowers tower, you get a panoramic view of the city of Ibadan. From the top of the tower, you can see some important landmarks such as the Cocoa House, the University College Hospital (UCH), Polytechnic of Ibadan, The University of Ibadan, Agodi gardens just to mention a few. The tower gives a 360 birds-eye view of the city of Ibadan. No wonder the locals call it Oke Layipo which can be translated as the Mount of turn around. This is because at the top lies a platform where you can make a three-sixty degrees turn. Why was It built? Bowers tower was built as a memorial monument in honour and memory of Captain Bowers the first resident and travel Commissioner of interior Yoruba. He was appointed by Queen Elizabeth in 1893 to oversee and put an end to the unending wars between the different Yoruba kingdoms. Bowers Tower was constructed in 1936 and unveiled in memory of Captain Robert Lister Bower the Resident and Travel Commissioner of interior Yoruba in Ibadan. The location was perfect because it is located on a hill which is the highest point in the city. From this hill, you can see almost every part of the Ibadan. Who Built Bowers Tower? Bowers tower was built by the same engineer that built and designed Mapo Hall. It has 47 spiral staircase which was designed by Taffy Jones that leads to the top of the tower. Taffy Jones is the same engineer that built Mapo hall, another historical monument in Ibadan. The Tower was named in honour of the first Resident and Travelling Commissioner of Interior Yorubaland Captain Ross L. Bower. Bowers Tower comes has two entrances which usher you to to a spiral staircase that leads to the top of the tower. Things to Do At Bowers Tower Though the main attraction here is the tower, however, there are a couple of activities you can do here Enjoy the panoramic view of the City Climb the 47 spiral staircase Identify major landmarks from the top Take beautiful pictures of the city Organise a picnic Things to Take Along Camera or camera phone Power bank Snacks and drinks What to Wear to Bowers Tower Since it involves climbing it is advisable to wear something comfortable or sporty Wear sports shoes, avoid heels or slippers if possible. Landmarks you can See from the top of Bowers tower University College Hospital (UCH) University of Ibadan Cocoa House Dugbe Market Agodi Gardens Iwo Road Ife Road Olorunsogo The defunct Lagos /Ibadan Toll Gate and guess Beere Mokola Lekan Salami Sports Complex Cultural Centre Oje Yemetu etc Location of Bowers Tower The sixty feet monument was built on Oke Are Hill at Igbo Agala in Ibadan, it is the highest of the seven hills surrounding the city. It is located at Oke Are, Ibadan North Local Government Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria Opening Hours Bowers Tower opens from 9 am to 5 pm Gate Fee to Bowers Tower The gate fee to Bowers tower is Two Hundred Naira (N200) about $0.45 per individual Other Things to Note If you are visiting this tower, make sure you come with your food and drinks, also do not stay late or come too early. It is located outskirt the main town with couples of development and along the lonely road that leads to the destination. Getting foods or drinks is almost impossible when you arrive here. Other Tourist attractions in Ibadan Close to Bowers Tower Mapo Hall Agodi Gardens University of Ibadan Zoo Cocoa House National Museum Ibadan If you are thinking of the next adventurous things to do or what to add to your bucket lists. Do not forget to add this and next time you visit Ibadan, do not hesitate to stop by at this colonial tower to catch a glimpse of the beautiful city of Ibadan. If you are looking for an adventurous trip to Ibadan. Travelwaka offers packaged and private tours. Feel free to send us a message.
Kalakuta Republic Museum – Music, Arts and Life of Fela Anikulapo Kuti
Visit To The Kalakuta Republic Museum – Celebration of a Great Icon Kalakuta Republic Museum – Just in case you are wondering how the home of the Late Fela Kuti was like or what it will be like to have a feel of his life when he was alive. Kalakuta Republic museum has answers to all your question. The Kalakuta Republic Museum is the exact Replica of the Home of the king of Afro Music Fela Anikulapo Kuti. The house is now a museum and a guest house located in Ikeja. A place where lovers of the great music legend, fun lovers, history enthusiasts or tourist can go to learn more about the life of the Late Abami Eda as he is fondly called. It doesn’t matter whether you are a lover of Afro music or the music legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti. This museum represents the home to struggle, resilience against the military oppressors, activism and a hope for the future. It gives an insight into the life of the late Abami Eda as Fela was fondly called. The Birth of Kalakuta Museum The Kalakuta Museum was borne out of what used to be known as the Kalakuta Republic. The Home and studio of the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti. The Kalakuta Museum was the official residence of the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti, his 27 wives, band and his family. The Kalakuta RepubIic also features his studio and album covers. Most of his recordings happened here. More Stories The name Kalakuta was adopted from one of the prison cells he stayed during his conviction known as Calcutta cell on gaining freedom he decided to name his abode the Kalakuta Republic which he later declared a sovereign state which even angered the then Military Government. The museum features Fela’s trademark fashion items like shoes, clothes, underwears, musical instruments, fashion collections, photographs, artworks etc The journey to making this place a museum was conceived by his family and the contract awarded to Theo Lawson. Theo Lawson is the man responsible for converting Her Royal majesty Prison to Freedom Park. This was in partnership with the Lagos State Government under the leadership Babatunde Raji Fashola. History Of Kalakuta Republic, Now Kalakuta Museum The Kalakuta Republic Museum was an initiative of the former Governor of Lagos Babatunde Raji Fashola. It was rebuilt in 2012 to help people understand the life and struggle of the Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti. But before then it was just the abode of the Fela which he declared a republic and a sovereign state and Independent from Nigeria due to the corruption of the then Military Government of Nigeria. The Museum was officially opened on October 15, 2012, in commemoration of his 74th Birthday. It was renovated by the Lagos State Government and is being managed by Total Consult Limited. About Fela Anikulapo Kuti – Founder of Kalakuta Republic The late Fela Anikulapo Kuti was a freedom fighter who used his music to fight against corruption, the military and dictatorship rule which under the military rule. He was born on 15th October 1938 in Abeokuta and he died on 2nd August 1997. Facts About Fela Anikulapo Kuti He formed his own political party known as Movement of the People Fela Anikulapo Kuti invented the Afrobeat He changed his surname from Ransome to Anikulapo Kuti Fela married twenty-seven (27) wives in one day. His backup musicians and dancers were majorly his wives. Facilities at The Kalakuta Republic Museum Here are some of the facilities at the Kalakuta Museum. 1. Collection of Fela’s fashion apparel 2. Fela’s Collections of Shoes 3. A rare view of Fela’s bedroom 4. Relics of his musical Instruments 5. It has a 5 room Hotel 6. An open roof restaurant/lounge 7. Different Artworks 8. Enjoy great view and food from the open roof restaurant 9. Artworks of his album cover 10. Relics of Fela’s Musical Instruments 11. Fela’s Musical Studio Things to Do at the Kalakuta Republic 1. Lodge at one of the five rooms guesthouse 2. See Fela’s Tomb 3. See Fela’s clothes collections 4. See The covers to his albums 4. See some artworks 6. Get a souvenir from the gift shops 7. Get a nice view of the city from the rooftop 8. Business or casual meetings Things that are not Allowed at the Kalakuta Republic Museum 1. No Drugs 2. No Professional cameras, however, you can use your phone’s cameras 3. No slippers within the building. 4. Children are not allowed at the roof-top lounge Location of the Kalakuta Museum 9, Gbemiola Street, Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria. Some of the height of the tour was his bedroom, rehearsal room, private photo collections, artworks and the Lounge. Other Tourist Attractions Close to Kalakuta Republic Museum The New Afrika Shrine Ikeja City Mall Lagos Airport Hotel JJT Park Kanu Nduibuisi Park Governors Office List of Other places you can visit within Lagos. For Private Or Group Tours Looking for a personalised Private tour Within Lagos? Contact us Photos From The Kalakuta Republic Museum
First Storey Building in Nigeria – The Monument That has Stood the Test of time
History of the First Storey Building in Nigeria The history of the first storey building in Nigeria can be dated as far back as the days of the colonial rule. It was not just another structural building but a sign of goodwill, hope and strength. This building served as the pacesetter for the Christian religion, education, development, commerce, end to slavery, freedom and independence etc. History of the First Storey Building in Nigeria The official first storey building in Nigeria was built by Reverend Henry Townsend a missionary of the Church Missionary Society (CMS) in 1845. The building served as the official residence of St Anglican Church. The foundation was laid in 1842 and it was completed in 1845. It is located in the coastal town of Badagry. A city that shares a border with the Benin Republic, another country within the coast of West Africa. The house comprises of two sitting rooms, 6 bedrooms, four stores and a safe. This house has accommodated some of the greatest missionaries and prominent people in the Nigerian history. It accommodated the first preachers of the gospel in Nigeria, also Samuel Ajayi Crowther , the man that translated the English Bible to Yoruba in 1845 and also the first Primary School teacher in Nigeria Mr Claudius Philips amongst others. . Best Time to Visit the first storey building This place is usually quiet but if you go on peak periods where students are on an excursion or during festive periods, it usually gets populated. Also Read: Other Things to Do in Badagry Opening And Closing Time The Building opens by 8am and closes at 6pm Things to do at the first storey building 1. Have a picnic with family and friends 2. Get to see a copy of the translated Yoruba bible which is over 170 years old and the English Bible from which it was translated. 3. Fetch water from the miracle well that has been in existence since 1842 4. Learn about the history of Christianity in Nigeria 5. Visit the Agia monument where Christianity was first preached in Nigeria. 6. See the rooms where the first missionaries in Nigeria lived. 7. See the room of the first teacher in Nigeria Mr Claudius Philips Location of the First Storey Building in Nigeria Marina Road, Badagry The first storey building in Nigeria is located at the marina water front in Badagry. How to Get to the first Storey Building in Badagry If you are coming from the Lagos Island or mainland or outside Lagos, firstly, you need to get to Badagry roundabout and turn left, once you make the left turn towards Joseph Dosu, drive towards the end of the road where you’d see another round about , the fisherman’s statue, take another left turn and locate Mobee Street, Off Mobee street is Marina Road, Badagry Other Tourist attractions close to First Storey building Mobee Museum Brazillian Baracoon Slave Trade Port Point of No return Whispering Palms After visiting this historic site which is being run by the Anglican Church of Nigeria. I felt a little bit of history. Learning about the beauty of this ancient building that has stood the test of time. However, if you are visiting the first storey building in Nigeria do not hesitate to share your experience. More Pictures from First Storey Building in Nigeria