COCOA HOUSE IBADAN
The iconic Cocoa House in Ibadan stands as West Africa’s first skyscraper, symbolizing Nigeria’s cocoa heritage and architectural innovation.
Located in the bustling heart of Dugbe, Ibadan, Oyo State, Cocoa House remains a proud symbol of Nigeria’s rich agricultural and architectural history. Completed in 1965 and originally called “Ile Awon Agbe” (House of Farmers), the 26-story structure was built entirely from funds generated through cocoa exports. Its eventual renaming to “Cocoa House” reflects the very source of its financing and the economic strength of Nigeria’s cocoa era. Rising 105 meters above the city skyline, Cocoa House was the first skyscraper in West Africa and an enduring testament to the foresight of the Western Region government under the leadership of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. A cocoa tree was planted beside a water fountain at the building’s entrance, a living emblem of the industry that made the project possible. Today, the building houses offices, conference facilities, and businesses while continuing to serve as an important landmark and tourist attraction.
Cocoa House is more than a skyscraper; it is a living monument to Nigeria’s cocoa wealth, agricultural success, and visionary leadership, proving that bold ideas and resourceful planning can create architectural achievements that inspire future generations.
Cocoa House’s importance goes beyond architecture; it represents an era when agriculture was the economic backbone of Nigeria. The revenue from cocoa exports empowered the Western Region to invest in infrastructure and education, setting a precedent for self-funded development. Over the decades, Cocoa House has survived fire incidents and undergone major renovations, yet it remains an iconic feature of Ibadan’s skyline and a proud emblem of the city’s resilience. Inside, visitors can explore business offices and conference halls that merge historical significance with modern functionality. The building continues to attract historians, tourists, and professionals eager to connect with a physical reminder of Nigeria’s agricultural heritage. For construction and engineering professionals, Cocoa House is an example of how vision and resource management can create timeless structures.