Tourism, indeed, offers immense potential for economic growth and development in Oyo State, and the government’s efforts to harness this potential are yielding impressive results. With its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks, Oyo State is poised to attract visitors from far and wide, generating significant revenue for the state. One such landmark, the iconic Bower’s Tower, has recently undergone renovation, thanks to the intervention of the Chief Executive Officer, Ilaji Hotels & Sports Resort and ICAST, Chief Engr Jubril Dotun Sanusi, the Jagun Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Built-in 1936 to honor Captain Robert Lister Bower, the first British resident in Nigeria, the 60-foot tower offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Ibadan’s landscape. From its vantage point on Oke Are Hill, visitors can take in the sights of the city, including the Cocoa House, Mokola Hill, Adamasingba stadium, the Polytechnic, Ibadan, the University College Hospital, and the rustic brown roofs of the surrounding buildings.
Despite its historical significance and tourism potential, the tower had been left in a state of disrepair for years, with its last renovation dating back to 1999. However, in response to the call by the Commissioner for Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, Chief Engr Jubril Dotun Sanusi championed the renovation of the spiral staircase and the construction of a block toilet for tourists, which was commissioned in December 2023.
Dr. Olatubosun praised Chief Sanusi’s intervention, stating that the renovation has boosted activities at the site and attracted more visitors. “Before Chief Dotun Sanusi offered to facelift the Tower and build the toilet for the site, the situation was bad. People were afraid of climbing the Tower because of the cracked spiral staircase, which was dangerous. But he has fixed it, and that is the major thing that needs to be fixed. He also renovated a toilet for the convenience of visitors, and his intervention has boosted activities at the site, and we are hoping for more.”
Chief Engr Jubril Dotun Sanusi’s vested interest in sports, hospitality, and tourism is undoubtedly increasing local and foreign traffic to the state, particularly Ibadan. His efforts have not only restored the tower to its former glory but have also contributed to the growth of the state’s economy.
The renovation of Bower’s Tower is a testament to the government’s determination to develop the state’s tourism potential and a reminder that with collective efforts, Oyo State can become a preferred destination for tourists and a hub for economic growth. As the state continues to explore its tourism potential, Chief Engr Jubril Dotun Sanusi’s contributions serve as a shining example of the impact that individuals can have on the development of the sector.
