Abeokuta

Abeokuta is the capital city of Ogun State in southwestern Nigeria. It sits on the eastern bank of the Ogun River, roughly 60 kilometers north of Lagos, and serves as a major commercial and administrative center in the region.

The city originated in the early 19th century as a settlement of the Egba people. It grew around Olumo Rock, a prominent outcrop that provided refuge and defence during periods of conflict. The Yoruba name Abeokuta is commonly interpreted as “under the rock.” The rock and its caves became a symbol of the community and a major tourist site.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Abeokuta emerged as the political and economic heart of the Egba-speaking people and developed strong ties with British colonial administration. The city later served as an influential center within the colonial western region.

Economy and institutions: Abeokuta’s economy is mixed, with commerce, agriculture, and services playing important roles. The city is home to the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), established in 1999, which anchors higher education in the area. It also hosts a range of secondary schools, markets, and small-scale industries.

Culture and demography: The Egba subgroup of the Yoruba forms the core of the population, and Yoruba is the predominant language. Religions represented include Christianity, Islam, and traditional beliefs. The city hosts markets, festivals, and cultural sites connected to Egba heritage.