Cocoa House
South West Nigeria Region
Cocoa House, located in the commercial district of Dugbe in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, stands as a historic landmark and architectural icon. Completed in July 1964 and commissioned in 1965, it was the first skyscraper in West Africa and the tallest building in Nigeria until 1979, reaching a height of 105 meters. The 26-storey building was funded by proceeds from agricultural commodities, particularly cocoa, reflecting the economic prosperity of the Western Region at the time. Originally named 'Ile Awon Agbe' or 'House of Farmers' in Yoruba, it was later renamed Cocoa House to honor the cocoa industry and a cocoa tree planted beside the building. Cocoa House has housed offices of major firms and broadcasting companies, including three floors occupied by Odu’a Investment Company Limited. It also hosts the Odua Museum and Hall of Fame, inaugurated by Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka in 2013. Despite suffering a devastating fire in 1985, which gutted the top floors, the building was renovated and reopened in 1992. Managed by Wemabod Estates Limited, a subsidiary of Odu’a group, Cocoa House remains a proud symbol of Nigeria’s post-colonial progress and economic heritage.
Plan your trip to Nigeria with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors should plan to visit during weekdays when offices and the Odua Museum are open. Early visits in the day are recommended to avoid peak traffic in Dugbe. While tickets for the museum may be available on-site, checking availability or booking in advance is advisable. The building is accessible via public transport and offers a unique glimpse into Nigeria's modern architectural history. Discounts may be available for students or groups at the museum.
Interesting facts
- •Cocoa House was the tallest building in Nigeria from 1965 to 1979.
- •It was the first skyscraper constructed in West Africa.
- •The building was originally named 'Ile Awon Agbe', meaning 'House of Farmers'.
- •A cocoa tree was planted in front of the building, inspiring its current name.
- •The Odua Museum and Hall of Fame inside the building was commissioned by Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka in 2013.
History
Cocoa House was proposed by Chief Obafemi Awolowo and funded through allocations from cocoa export proceeds by the Western Region government.
Completed in 1964 and commissioned in 1965, it was the first skyscraper in West Africa and symbolized the region’s economic strength.
In 1985, a fire caused by electrical faults gutted the top floors, forcing its closure.
After extensive renovations, it reopened in 1992 and has since continued to serve as a commercial office building and cultural site.
Place Guide
Odua Museum and Hall of Fame2013
A cultural museum located within Cocoa House showcasing the history and achievements of the Odua Investment Company and notable personalities from the region. Commissioned by Professor Wole Soyinka in 2013, it offers exhibitions that celebrate Yoruba heritage and economic development.
