Akure, Ondo: A Guide to the History, Culture, and Highlights
- Simon Zaku
- Mar 24
- 4 min read
Have you ever wondered about Akure, the capital city of Ondo State?
Known for its rich history, serene landscapes, and cultural heritage, Akure is one of the most vibrant cities in southwestern Nigeria.
Hi, I’m Simon Zaku, founder of IBIFoundry LLC, and today, I’m taking you on a journey through Akure and Ondo State. We’ll explore its history, places to visit, and the unique aspects that make it a destination worth exploring.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. A Brief History of Akure and Ondo State
2. Akure Postal Code
3. Akure Airport
4. Best Hotels in Akure
5. Top Chill-Out Spots in Akure
6. Best Areas to Stay in Akure
7. Best Restaurants in Akure
8. Languages Spoken in Akure and Ondo State
9. The Capital of Ondo State
10. Towns in Ondo State
11. The King of Ondo State
12. Past and Present Governors of Ondo State
13. Local Government Areas in Ondo State
14. Universities and Institutions in Ondo State
15. FAQs
A Brief History of Akure and Ondo State
Akure, the capital of Ondo State, has a history deeply rooted in Yoruba tradition. Legend has it that the city was founded by Omoremi, a prince from Ile-Ife, the cradle of Yoruba civilization. The name "Akure" is derived from "Àkùnrẹ́," which means "a place where things stay forever."
Ondo State itself was created in 1976, carved out of the old Western State. It is known for its natural resources, cultural festivals, and agricultural prominence, particularly in cocoa production.
Akure Postal Code
The postal code for Akure is 340001.
Akure Airport
Akure Airport, also known as Akure Domestic Airport, is located about 15 km northeast of the city. It serves as a gateway to Ondo State, with flights connecting to major Nigerian cities like Abuja and Lagos.
Best Hotels in Akure
Looking for a place to stay in Akure? Here are some top hotels:
Sunview Hotel – A luxurious option with modern amenities.
Grand Capital Hotel – Known for its excellent hospitality.
Valley Spring Hotel – Perfect for business and leisure travelers.
The Bliss World Hotel – Offers a serene environment for relaxation.
Top Chill-Out Spots in Akure
Akure boasts several chill-out spots where you can relax and unwind:
Idanre Hills – A UNESCO World Heritage Site located just outside Akure.
Dejavu Lounge – A great spot for nightlife enthusiasts.
Akure Mall – Ideal for shopping and entertainment.
Owo Museum of Antiquities – Perfect for history and culture lovers.
Best Areas to Stay in Akure
Some of the best areas to stay in Akure include:
Alagbaka Estate – Known for its upscale residential environment.
Ijapo Estate – Popular among professionals and visitors.
Oda Road – Offers a mix of affordability and convenience.
Best Restaurants in Akure
Food lovers are in for a treat in Akure. Here are some must-visit restaurants:
Chicken Republic – A go-to spot for quick bites.
Sunview Restaurant – Offers both local and continental dishes.
Captain Cook – Known for its tasty Nigerian delicacies.
Akure Grill House – Famous for its grilled dishes and suya.
Languages Spoken in Akure and Ondo State
The primary language spoken in Akure and Ondo State is Yoruba, with the Akure dialect being prominent.
English is widely understood, especially in urban areas, as it is the official language of Nigeria.
The Capital of Ondo State
Akure is the capital of Ondo State and serves as its administrative, cultural, and economic hub.
Towns in Ondo State
Ondo State is home to several towns, including:
Akure
Ondo Town
Owo
Ikare-Akoko
Idanre
Ile-Oluji
The King of Ondo State
The traditional ruler of Akure is the Deji of Akure, currently Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi.
In Ondo Town, the traditional ruler is the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom.
Past and Present Governors of Ondo State
Ondo State has had several notable governors since its creation, including:
Adekunle Ajasin (1979–1983)
Olusegun Agagu (2003–2009)
Olusegun Mimiko (2009–2017)
Rotimi Akeredolu (2017–2024)
The current governor of Ondo State is Lucky Aiyedatiwa (acting) as of 2024.
Local Government Areas in Ondo State
Ondo State has 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs), including:
Akure North
Akure South
Ondo West
Owo
Idanre
Ifedore
Universities and Institutions in Ondo State
Ondo State is home to some of Nigeria’s top institutions:
Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA)
Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA)
Ondo State University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED)
Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo
Conclusion
Akure is more than just a capital city—it’s a treasure trove of culture, history, and modern attractions.
Whether you’re visiting for leisure, business, or education, Akure and Ondo State offer unforgettable experiences.
Planning to visit Akure or Ondo State? Let IBIFoundry help you craft the perfect travel itinerary.
Book a bespoke Akure tour today and experience the best of Ondo State!
FAQs
1. What is the postal code of Akure?
The postal code of Akure is 340001.
2. What language is spoken in Akure?
Yoruba is the primary language spoken in Akure, with English as the official language.
3. Who is the king of Akure?
The king of Akure is Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, the Deji of Akure.
4. What is the best area to stay in Akure?
Some of the best areas to stay include Alagbaka Estate, Ijapo Estate, and Oda Road.
5. Which towns are in Ondo State?
Ondo State has towns like Akure, Ondo Town, Owo, Ikare-Akoko, and Idanre.
6. Who is the current governor of Ondo State?
As of 2024, the acting governor of Ondo State is Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
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