The Ogun State Government has announced that the free entry period to the newly renovated Olumo Rock Tourist Complex in Abeokuta will officially end on Saturday, August 23, 2025.
This follows what officials described as an “unprecedented and overwhelming” turnout of visitors since the state government introduced free access to the historical site earlier in the month.
According to a public statement issued by the government, the free entry initiative was introduced by Governor Dapo Abiodun to give both residents and tourists an opportunity to rediscover the cultural and historical significance of Olumo Rock, one of Nigeria’s most iconic natural landmarks.
Since then, the complex has seen thousands of visitors daily, with many expressing excitement over the improved facilities and the chance to explore the ancient rock formation at no cost.
However, the state government has raised concerns over the large crowds, which it said have sometimes stretched the capacity of the facility and posed risks to public safety.
“There were moments when the crowd size created real safety concerns,” the government said. “At certain points, the risk of stampede was only avoided due to the swift action of security personnel and staff on ground.”
Following a review of the situation, Governor Abiodun directed that the free entry window will be discontinued from August 23, 2025, and normal entry protocols—including ticketing and guided tours—will resume immediately after.
While acknowledging the likely disappointment from some members of the public, the government stressed that the decision was taken in the best interest of all visitors and workers at the site.
“The safety of lives is non-negotiable,” the statement said.
Governor Abiodun has made tourism a major focus of his administration’s cultural and economic development strategy. The renovation of Olumo Rock is part of a broader effort to reposition Ogun State as a hub for heritage tourism, local enterprise, and cultural preservation.
Olumo Rock, which rises 137 meters above sea level, holds a unique place in Yoruba history. It served as a natural fortress for the Egba people during inter-tribal wars in the 19th century. Over time, it became a symbol of strength, resilience, and unity for the people of Abeokuta and beyond.
Under the recent renovation, the tourist complex now features upgraded stairways, improved safety rails, better lighting, enhanced tour guide systems, and cleaner surroundings—making it more accessible and enjoyable for modern-day visitors.
Since the reopening, local residents, school children, international tourists, and culture enthusiasts have all trooped to the site to climb the ancient rock, explore its caves, and learn about its legendary significance.
“I’ve lived in Abeokuta all my life but never had the chance to visit Olumo Rock until now,” said Tolu Balogun, a university student. “I’m grateful to the governor for making it free—it gave many of us a chance to finally connect with our heritage.”
Others praised the improved facilities, saying the government’s investment has brought the rock back to life.
“It’s cleaner, safer, and better organized,” said Ngozi Eze, who came from Lagos with her family. “This is the kind of thing we need more of in Nigeria—places that remind us of who we are and where we come from.”
From Sunday, August 24, access to Olumo Rock will return to its normal operation structure. Visitors will be required to pay standard entry fees, which help fund the maintenance, staff salaries, and preservation of the site.
The government emphasized that while the free period is ending, the focus on tourism promotion will continue. Measures are also being taken to improve parking, security, and crowd management going forward.
“We are committed to making Olumo Rock not only a place of cultural pride but also a safe and sustainable tourism destination,” the statement added.
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In recent years, the Ogun State Government has invested in a number of tourism and cultural projects. These include the development of the Adire Market, promotion of local festivals, and plans to turn heritage sites into income-generating assets for local communities.
Governor Abiodun’s administration has also partnered with private investors to upgrade tourist infrastructure and improve visitor experience across the state.
Olumo Rock remains a top destination, not just for its history, but for the panoramic view it offers of Abeokuta and its surroundings. From the top, visitors can see the Ogun River, the city’s rooftops, and distant hills, all adding to the mystique of the location.
