The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has described the iconic Cocoa House in Ibadan as more than just a building, calling it a powerful story of resilience, unity, and visionary leadership that continues to inspire generations 60 years after its construction.
The Governor made this remark in a goodwill message delivered by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, during the celebration of the milestone event tagged: “Cocoa House at 60.”
Sanwo-Olu noted that the pioneers of Cocoa House built their legacy on agriculture and urged contemporary leaders to emulate this legacy through investments in education, technology, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.
“Our calling is to dream bigger, to invest bolder, and to ensure that the next 60 years produce even greater stories,” the Governor said.
He further emphasized the importance of regional collaboration among Southwest states to accelerate development and improve the lives of citizens, pledging Lagos State’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with sister states to unlock shared prosperity.
“Cocoa House was not just raised with bricks and mortar. It was built with the sacrifices of our farmers and the dreams of leaders who understood that investing wisely could secure tomorrow. That is why, even today, it continues to inspire us decades after,” he added.
The Governor also recounted how the Western Region Government, under the late Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola, brought the idea to fruition in 1965, following its initiation by Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Earlier, the Group Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, shared the story of how the building began from scratch and praised Southwest governors for appointing competent board members to steer the company.
The celebration featured a panel discussion titled “Evolution of High-Rising Buildings in Nigeria”, moderated by Arc. Femi Agboola. Industry experts highlighted the emergence of high-rise buildings in the country and emphasized the need to engage qualified professionals in the sector.
Originally named Ile Awon Agbe, or the House of Farmers, Cocoa House was financed with £1.2 million derived from the region’s agricultural wealth, particularly from cocoa, rubber, and timber exports. A cocoa tree planted at its entrance remains a quiet reminder of its agricultural roots.
Dignitaries in attendance included Olori Onikepo Akande, children and grandchildren of Obafemi Awolowo and Samuel Ladoke Akintola, among other notable personalities.
Cocoa House, standing tall in Ibadan for six decades, remains a symbol of visionary leadership, regional cooperation, and the enduring power of agricultural wealth in shaping Nigeria’s modern history.
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