Cocoa House in Ibadan has undergone its first major renovation in 59 years, symbolising a renewed commitment to preserving Nigerian heritage.

Ibadan’s historic Cocoa House, Nigeria’s first skyscraper, has undergone its first renovation in nearly six decades, a project marked as a significant milestone in the legacy of the landmark.

The revitalised structure, located in Oyo State, was officially commissioned on Thursday, featuring a redesigned reception area, an upgraded car park, and enhanced surroundings.

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Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by Chief of Staff Segun Ogunwuyi at the ceremony, expressed his administration’s dedication to initiatives that honour the South-West region’s legacy.

“We must continue to uplift the legacies of our predecessors and foster progress through collaborative efforts. This building is a testament to our shared heritage and economic potential, and its renovation is a symbol of both our past achievements and our future aspirations,” Makinde said.

Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL), led by Chairman Bimbo Ashiru, oversaw the renovations as part of its commitment to preserving the region’s heritage.

Speaking at the event, Ashiru described Cocoa House as a symbol of Western Nigeria’s economic resilience and noted that the renovations, including the addition of a modern office space on the 21st floor, would ensure its relevance in a changing landscape.

“Today, as we stand before this historic edifice, we are reminded of the importance of honouring our past while building for the future,” Ashiru stated.

Cocoa House, originally completed in 1965, represents the economic vision of the region’s founding fathers, built from revenues generated by Nigeria’s once-thriving cocoa industry.

The building’s modernisation preserves this symbol of agricultural and economic success, emphasised by OICL’s Group Managing Director, Abdulrahman Yinusa. He noted, “As Nigeria’s first skyscraper, Cocoa House is intertwined with the success of the agricultural sector, particularly cocoa, which was once the backbone of our economy.

This commissioning represents our commitment to ensuring that Cocoa House remains a place of pride and a functional space for future generations.”

The renovation ceremony attracted dignitaries from across the South-West, including representatives of the five state governors and the Chairman of the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria Commission, Seye Oyeleye.

These leaders joined to celebrate Cocoa House’s renewal, signalling a shared vision of preserving history while adapting for future growth.