20 Remarkable Facts About Abeokuta’s Place in Nigeria’s History
Abeokuta is known for Olumo Rock, but its influence on modern Nigeria runs much deeper. The city was founded by the Egba people in 1830, while Olumo Rock served as a refuge during periods of war and invasion. The Ogun State capital is linked to several early Nigerian milestones. These include Iwe Irohin, founded in 1859 as Nigeria’s first newspaper; Sacred Heart Hospital; early Christian missions; and the Sokori Bridge, built in 1903 under indigenous engineering leadership. Abeokuta also had a recognised self-governing Egba United Government from 1893 until it was absorbed into the Southern Nigeria Protectorate in 1914. The city has produced major figures in politics, activism, music, law and business, including Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, M.K.O. Abiola, Olusegun Obasanjo and Akintola Williams. From journalism and healthcare to culture and political history, Abeokuta remains one of the cities that helped shape modern Nigeria.
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