Trip to Olumo Rock - Ogun State, Nigeria

Even though I was born in Ogun State, Nigeria, it has taken me nearly three decades to go visit “Olumo Rock” located in the State’s capital, Abeokuta! So finally, I visited this cite along with some friends and have provided some details below.

Olumo rock is a massive outcrop of granite rocks of primitive formation from which Abeokuta the capital of the state derived its name.Folklore has it that Olumo Rock has since the 19th century, served as the “fortress” to people of Egba land.  The name “Abeokuta” itself means “under the rock”.  Olumo Rock, stands at a height of 137 meters above sea level and has man-made stairs carved into the rock, making climbing easy for tourists, both young and old.  Interestingly, an elevator has been constructed (as can be seen above) to aid the journey up the Rock (for less fit tourists), albeit at a cost.  Though the Elevator was not working the day I visited.

From the peak of the rock, you would be afforded a beautiful view of other tourists’ locations in Abeokuta like the First Church of Nigeria, the Central Mosque, the River Ogu as well as the family house of the late Moshood Abiola.  It was indeed a lovely sight to behold.

At the Apex

 At Olumo Rock, you would be treated to attractions like natural tunnels, unusual trees, natural beams, gardens on the rock, broken pathways, monuments of the belief system of the rock’s primeval settlers (which the locals still believe and worship annually), the existence of a muster tree growing for over 200 years and surrounding caves. In fact, one of the unbelievable sights to behold was a woman touted to be over 130 years old. See Picture:

Also, included are eatery/restaurant, a museum, conference hall, multi-purpose hall, garden, parking space etc.  It was indeed a fun outing for me and my friends.

 

Feel free to reach me on my email, if you require any information.