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.
Top Amala Spots in Nigeria – Restaurants To get the best Amala
Top Amala spots in Nigeria – Nigeria is blessed with a lot of rich delicacies and Amala is one of them. Nigerian foods are great! If you’ve ever had Amala with Gbegiri and Ewedu and assorted goat meat (Ogufe), then you can testify to the goodness of this amazing delicacy from Southwest Nigeria. It’s difficult to argue with this assertion as Amala ranks high when it comes to Nigerian delicacies. Every tribe in Nigeria has its own delicacies, but the favourite delicacy for most people especially from South-West Nigeria is Amala. Amala is made from Yam flour which is a product of yam tuber. However, it would seem like Amala is managing to transcend being just a Yoruba cuisine. So if you are looking for top Amala spots in Nigeria, we got you on this. I feel bad for you if you don’t like amala because you don’t have any clue what kind of happiness it offers. It’s like paradise, winning the lottery, getting married to the long love of your life and raising your first kid all rolled up into one. You can only understand when you taste of its awesomeness. Like they say in this part of the world if you know you know. For many Nigerians, Amala is without a doubt, a favourite Nigerian meal. The best Amala is a matter of beauty and happiness, soft, sweet, fluffy and lump-free. It would not be prudent for us to go waste money on rubbish amala. Wherever you’re in the world, a plate of Amala instantly evokes memories of your home (especially if you’re from the Western part of Nigeria). Some Amala enthusiasts have stated that consuming Amala is more than just having a meal but a complete experience, which is why they go on purposeful hunts to find the best Amala spots in Nigeria or anywhere they are located. I could continue to praise the qualities of this great delicacy but again what use is it if we don’t give you the best amala Restaurants in Nigeria. If you haven’t previously eaten Amala and are planning to try it out, the secret is to make sure you try out the very best Amala you can get your hands on. Please follow this post for the best amala spots in Nigeria. Just in case you’re ready to try out the legendary Yoruba cuisine called Amala, here are some of the top-of-the-list Amala restaurants in Nigeria. List of Top Amala Restaurants in Nigeria If you are looking for the best amala joint in Nigeria or the best Amala restaurant, just sit back, relax and have fun. 1. Amala Phase 1, Lagos Island, Lagos. Amala Phase 1 is a top Amala restaurant based on Lagos Island and it has been satisfying and making customers happy for more than 30 years. It’s not a joke for a local restaurant to have 30 years of experience! Many have testified to the delectable taste experience they enjoy when they visit this amala spot. They offer a wide variety of indigenous soups and assorted meats and fishes to go with your meal. Some go as far as even calling it addictive, hence, it has earned itself a spot on our list of top amala spots in Nigeria. 2. Amala Shitta – 26 Rabiatu Thompson Crescent, Shitta, Surulere This legendary place is indeed a top amala spot in Nigeria. It has been running since ’67! Talk about amala soaked in history, knowledge and boundless experience! This is hands down one of the best Amala restaurants in Lagos, Nigeria. Amala Shiytta offers amala almost 7 days a week! It is also famously known as the 306 Amala Spot. Amala Shitta is the oldest and coolest kid in the block in comparison to other Amala joints in Nigeria. This legendary amala spot is still one of the best places to get Amala and Ewedu with gbegiri in Lagos, Surulere to be precise and has been in service since 1967, the joint has met the constant hunger for tasty amala. It is still one of Nigeria’s oldest amala restaurants in Lagos and Nigeria. Every bit of the hype is worth this famous Lagos amala joint. Luscious amala, Ewedu with Gbegiri and assorted Goat meat. If you are still yet to eat here, then you need to plan a meet-up with your fellow Amala enthusiasts and foodies at one of the most prestigious Amala restaurants in Nigeria. 3. Inastrait Food Canteen, Ibadan This Amala restaurant in Ibadan can be found on the Cultural Center Road, Makola Hill, Ibadan, this canteen was founded in the 1970’s by Alhaja Akanke of blessed memory and has since continued to cook delicious dishes. Inastrait has two additional branches, one at Ibadan Polytechnic and the other one at Iwo Road near Arisekola Central Mosque. The canteen’s interior decor incorporates both the bukka setting design and a modern restaurant hint. Amala and Ewedu are the main cuisines you can expect to be served. The fact that there are three of this Canteen in Ibadan and the touch of luxurious interior decorations makes it a top Amala Spot in Nigeria. I mean, there would not be branches if the original is not doing well. 4. Bush, Ibadan Bush is another popular Amala Restaurant located in Ibadan. This Amala spot is a perfect fit for those that work at the Oyo State Secretariat, Ibadan. It’s at the back of the Ministries of Finance, Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters. You should pass through the Revenue House for easy access and a 4-minute walk would lead you to Bush, where food and beverages are available. The two most popular spots are green and blue “spots”. It’s unlikely you miss it, so the next time you find yourself at Ibadan Secretariat, do yourself a great favour stop by for a taste of awesomeness. 5. Olaiya, Surulere, Lagos If you have lived long enough in Lagos then you must have learned of Surulere’s popular Olaiya bukka. Famous for its hot and
Agodi Gardens Ibadan – A state of the Art Botanical Garden
Agodi Gardens is a state of the art Botanical garden located in the city of Ibadan close to the Government Complex. Agodi Gardens is seated majestically on over 150 acres of green land. It offers a relaxation spot for both adults and children. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ibadan for fun lovers and tourists. History of Agodi Botanical Gardens It was created in 1967 as a foremost recreational and tourist attraction in the Western region. It was abandoned after the Ogunpa flood disaster in 1980 swept away most of the animals and left the place in a deplorable condition. However, in 2012, the Oyo State Government under the leadership of Governor Abiola Ajimobi decided to give the Botanical Garden a facelift and it was renovated into a twenty-first-century park and garden. It was reopened to the general public in 2014 to convert it into a world-class tourist attraction and the number one relaxation spot in Ibadan. Agodi Gardens offers recreational facilities, games, sightseeing and other fun-seeking adventures. If you are looking for a beautiful garden with lots of serenity and a quiet place to have fun, Agodi garden is the best place for you. It was formally known as Agodi Zoological and Botanical Garden, it has since it’s reopening be renamed as Agodi Gardens. Our Agodi Gardens Experience It was a Tuesday we had set out from Lagos for a one week trip to visit all the major tourist sites in Ibadan. we arrived at Ibadan on Tuesday. We had our first tour on Wednesday, we visited the Captain Bowers Tower and Mapo Hall on Wednesday and our journey to Agodi Gardens began on Thursday. We moved from our hotel at Challenge Area of Ibadan and headed straight to the Oyo Government secretariat area and one thing we discovered was there are lots of roundabout in Ibadan and each roundabout has a statue. Everywhere around the Government area is beautiful and green and it makes you wonder why Ibadan was termed the brown roof city. Finally, we got to Agodi Gardens and we already fell in love with the lush gardens, beautiful scenery and the twenty-first-century amenities at Agodi gardens. We headed for the ticket area and it cost 500 per individual. Always go with cash do not rely on the cashless economy as they don’t accept transfers, the POS not reliable and the nearby ATM is far from Agodi Gardens. Then we were told our DSLR camera would not be allowed inside that we would have to drop it with the security at the gate. That didn’t go well with us, we wouldn’t dare risk our multi-million naira gadgets at the care of total strangers. We decided to stand our ground that we had phones that will do a good job and we wouldn’t use the camera. After a series of back and forth, we were allowed entrance into the facility. As we walked down the aisle we couldn’t believe this beautiful and well-maintained landscape is located somewhere in Ibadan. The water park facility was under maintenance when we went there. The zoo area is a no go area, The place was not well maintained that you would be wondering if it was part of the beautiful Agodi gardens. It was in a deplorable state and the few animals left look pale and hungry. Entering this zone might be at your own risk as it is bushy and not maintained with tall trees and weed growing everywhere. There was no tour guide or zookeeper around. Neither was there a description to tell you the entrance to the zoo. As a first-timer, you’d miss it because it doesn’t look anything like a zoo. The entrance to the place is not cultivated and you will have to walk through weeds into the zoo area. Caution should be taken when you go there. Facilities at Agodi Gardens Water park Merry go round for kids Boat ride Forest reserve Lake Mini zoo Play area and rides for children Picnic and Gardens area Boat ride Swimming Pool Bouncing castle Restaurant Lush garden Horse riding Hoverboard Paintballing What is the gate fee at Agodi Gardens? The gate fee to Agodi gardens is 500 Naira ($1.5) per individual. Other charges may apply for other facilities. Access to the swimming pool area will also attract another N500 ($1.5) List of Animals in The Zoo Parrots Crocodiles Monkeys Horses Goose Opening and Closing time at Agodi gardens Agodi Gardens is opened Mondays to Sunday Opening Time from Monday to Thursday is from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Saturday 10:00am to 9:00pm Sunday 12:00pm to 9:00am Best time to Visit Agodi There is no best time to visit Agodi Gardens, It just depends on your preference. If you love crowd, the best time to visit is during the holidays, Weekends or during the festive season. However, if you love serenity, the best time to visit is in the morning or evening after work. Location of Agodi Gardens It is located at the Parliament Road Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, close to the Oyo State Secretariat Complex. How to get to Agodi in Ibadan If you are coming from Within Ibadan City, Take a cab to Parliament road or Mokola Hills, then locate Agodi Gardens. If you are coming from outside Ibadan, Firstly you will need to get to Ibadan and then take a cab to Agodi Gardens. Fun Things to do at Agodi Botanical Gardens There are lots of fun activities to do at the Gardens. They include: 1. Enjoy the children park area where you have access to the gaming facility. 2. Take advantage of the advanced water park 3. Organise a swimming competition at one of the three swimming pools 4. Organise a party, birthday, event, seminar or team bonding 5. Check out the mini zoo 6. Enjoy the beautiful views of the garden 7. Ordered from the menu at the luxurious restaurant at Agodi 8. Take unlimited selfies Things that are
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.