Hot SourceKemi Olaitan in Ibadan
The Group Chairman, Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL), Otunba ‘Bimbo Ashiru, on Tuesday, assured investors of the commitment of the leadership of the conglomerate to make the iconic Cocoa House a hub for the future.
He gave the assurance at an event to mark 60 years since the inauguration of West Africa’s first skyscraper.
The commemorative event, which took place at the Cocoa House, Ibadan, drew dignitaries that include governors of the six South-west states, who were represented by their Secretaries to their State Governments (SSGs), business leaders and descendants of the visionaries behind the historic edifice, grandchildren of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Ladoke Akintola, among others.
Ashiru said the board under his leadership has no intention of letting the story of the edifice fade into nostalgia, adding that it would be a hub for integrating modern infrastructure, sustainable practices and cutting-edge facilities to preserve its soul.
He reflected on the building’s symbolic importance and resilience, recalling the devastating fire of January 9, 1985, that claimed lives and threatened its existence, describing its restoration as “an act of defiance” that demonstrated the indomitable spirit of the people.
He said: “Cocoa House, at 60 years old, is not just a building we work in; it is a living, breathing chapter of our collective story as a people. At 60, it is not slowing down; it is standing taller than ever, calling us to match its resilience with our own.
“May Cocoa House continue to inspire us to think big, act boldly, and work together for the good of our people.”
In his welcome address, the Group Managing Director of OICL, Mr. Abdulrahman Yinusa, described Cocoa House as more than a building, calling it a “statement” of the vision and enterprise of the Yoruba nation, tracing its history to 1965 when it was built from the proceeds of cocoa under the leadership of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and inaugurated by Chief Ladoke Akintola.
“Cocoa House is our talking drum – it calls us to remember who we are. She is our oríkì in stone and glass, telling the world of a people who could plant cocoa and harvest skyscrapers,” he said.
Yinusa then highlighted recent upgrades, including modernization of the reception area, improved parking and enhanced surroundings, stressing OICL’s commitment to blending preservation with modernization.
The event also featured the premiere of a Cocoa House documentary, goodwill messages from the representatives of the South-west governors who are the shareholders, Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission, the South West Development Commission, and a panel discussion on ‘The Evolution of High-Rise Buildings in Nigeria.’
The post Odu’a Investment Limited Celebrates 60 Years of Cocoa House appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.
