There were shower of praises on the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort, Akaran, Ibadan, who is also the Jagun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Engr. Chief Dotun Sanusi at the reopening of the newly renovated Captain Bowers Tower, an historic Yoruba tourist attraction in Ibadan.
The event, which was powered by Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism with the support of Sanusi had in attendance the Ekeerin Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Amidu Ajibade, the President-General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigienes (CCII), Barr. Niyi Ajewole, with all CCII excos, the Iyaloja-General of Oyo State, Alhaja Saratu Konibaje.
Others include the President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, President of Baales, Baale Olunde Ige, Coordinator, Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative, Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade and PDP Youth leader in Oyo State among others.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in the state, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun commended Sanusi for been a worthy son of Ibadanland and sustaining one of the heritage of the ancient city.
He stated that this is the first time in almost 50 years any renovation has been done on the tower, saying Sanusi’s contribution towards bringing the site to life can not be overemphasized.
Dignitaries at the event also lauded Sanusi for his philanthropist gesture, noting that Ibadan and Oyo State as a whole are happy to associate with him being one of the illustrious sons of the land.
According to them, Sanusi has touched lives of many residents and indigienes of Ibadanland and Oyo State in general positively, adding that his efforts towards upholding the customs and tradition of Ibadanland is well appreciated.
Meanwhile, in his remark, Sanusi lauded Olatubosun and official of the Ministry for their accountability on the project, saying the money donated for the renovation was judiciously spent.
Bowers tower is a historical landmark in Ibadan. It is the tallest peak in the state and the view from the top is amazing.
This tower is fondly referred to as ‘Oke Layipo’ by the locals because of its spiral stairs. From this tower, you can view the entire city of Ibadan.
The historical tower is 60 feet high and 11 feet square with two entrances and about 47 spiral staircase that leads to the top of the tower.
The Bowers tower is the highest hilltop in Ibadan giving a panoramic view of the city and important points in the city like University College Hospital (UCH). It is located at Oke Are Hill at Igbo Agala in Ibadan.
