Eminent personalities showered encomiums on Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ilaji Hotel and Sports Resort and Jagun Olubadan of Ibadan land, Chief Dotun Sanusi, at the reopening of the newly renovated Captain Bower’s Tower, a historic tourist centre in Ibadan.

The event, which was powered by Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, with the support of Sanusi, had in attendance the Ekeerin Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Hamidu Ajibade; President-General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigiens (CCII), Barr. Niyi Ajewole; all CCII exco, Iyaloja-General of Oyo State, Alhaja Saratu Konibaje; President, Ibadan Mogajis Association, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori; President of Baales Association, Baale Olunde Ige; Coordinator, Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative, Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade, among others.

Speaking, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in the state, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, commended Sanusi for being a worthy son of Ibadan land and sustaining one of the heritage of the ancient city.

He stated that this is the first time in almost 50 years any renovation has been done on the tower, adding that Sanusi’s contribution towards bringing the site to life can not be overemphasised.

Dignitaries at the event also lauded Sanusi for his philanthropic gesture, noting that Ibadan and Oyo State are happy to associate with him being one of the illustrious son of the land.

According to them, Sanusi has touched the lives of many residents and indigenes of Ibadan and Oyo State positively, adding that his efforts towards upholding the customs and tradition of Ibadan land is well appreciated.

In his remark, Sanusi lauded Olatubosun and officials of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for their accountability on the project, saying the money donated for the renovation was judiciously spent.

Bower’s tower is a historical landmark in Ibadan. It is the tallest peak in the state and the view from the top covers the entire city.

This tower is fondly referred to as ‘Oke Layipo’ by the locals because of its spiral stairs.

The historical tower is 60 feet high and 11 feet square, with two entrances and about 47 spiral staircase that leads to the top of the tower.

The Bower’s tower is the highest hilltop in Ibadan giving a panoramic view of the city and important points in the city like University College Hospital (UCH). It is located at Oke Are, Ibadan.