Last Saturday turned out to be one of the most exciting and enriching days I have ever experienced. I had the opportunity to visit Abeokuta, a city known for its history and culture, and the trip left me with memories I will always treasure.
Our adventure began at Olumo Rock, the city that has stood for centuries as a silent witness to the history of the Egba people. Standing at the foot of the rock, I was amazed by its size and uniqueness. As we climbed, our guide told us fascinating stories about how Olumo Rock served as a refuge during inter-tribal wars. He explained that cowries were once used as the legal tender, and that many people who hid within the rock’s caves survived the wars and later helped in building Abeokuta into the city it is today.
Hearing these stories makes the climb feel like walking through living history. When we reached the top, the amazing view was breathtaking the Ogun River causing a refreshing breeze through the city and saw a lot of rooftop stretching out in every direction, and the natural scene blending to see the entire city view.
From there, we continued our tour of Abeokuta. We visited the MKO Abiola family house, which holds the story of one of Nigeria’s most respected leaders. Next was the Central Mosque at Kobiti, a striking place of worship. The calm sight of the Ogun River reminded us of how important it is to the people of the region.
We also stopped by NTA Abeokuta, one of Nigeria’s oldest television stations, and passed through Baptist Boys’ High School, famous for producing many notable Nigerians successful individual today. Another remarkable stop was the St. Peter’s Anglican Cathedral, the first church built in Nigeria, which still stands strong as a symbol of faith. Finally, we saw the Government House, an important seat of power that reflects the most powerful place in the state.
Each site added something unique to my understanding of Abeokuta’s heritage. It wasn’t just a tour—it was a journey through history, culture, and tradition.
Looking back, my Saturday in Abeokuta was both adventurous and educational. The sights, stories, and lessons made it an unforgettable experience.
