The Governor of Lagos State, Mr.Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has described the Cocoa House in Ibadan as more than just a building, but a powerful story of resilience, unity, and the power of vision that still speaks to generations 60 years later.
The Governor stated this today in his goodwill message delivered by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin during the celebration of the building tagged: “Cocoa House at 60″.
Sanwo-Olu, who noted that the pioneers of the Cocoa House built their legacy on agriculture, called on today’s leaders to replicate the same legacy through education, technology, infrastructure, and opportunities for the youth.
“Our calling is to dream bigger, to invest bolder, and to ensure that the next 60 years produce even greater stories.”
He also called for closer regional cooperation among the southwest states to accelerate development of the region to uplift the lives of the people, pledging Lagos State’s commitment to continue to work hand-in-hand with sister states to unlock shared prosperity.
He said, “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 recalled how the Western Region Government under the late sage, Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola brought the idea of the House to life in 1965 after it was initiated and started by Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Earlier, the Group Chairman, Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, told the story of how the building began from scratch. He commended the Southwest Governors for the selection of the best hands as board members of the company.
The high point of the celebration was a panel discussion tagged: “Evolution of High-Rising Building in Nigeria” moderated by Arc. Femi Agboola. The high-profile personalities in the built industry spoke on the emergence of high-rise buildings and the importance of engaging professionals.
The thriving Cocoa House originally named Ile Awon Agbe, the House of Farmers, was financed with £1.2m by the region’s agricultural wealth, particularly cocoa, rubber, and timber exports. A cocoa tree planted at its entrance still
stands as a quiet reminder of those roots till today.
In attendance were important dignitaries, including Olori Onikepo Akande, children and grandchildren of late Obafemi Awolowo and Samuel Ladoke Akintola, among others.
