Abeokuta

Abeokuta is the state capital of Ogun State in southwest Nigeria. It is situated on the east bank of the Ogun River, near a set of rocky outcrops.

The name "Abeokuta" means "under the rock" in the Yoruba language, referring to the Olumo Rock, a significant geological and historical landmark considered sacred by the Egba people.

Abeokuta was founded around 1830 by the Egba refugees fleeing the disintegration of the Oyo Empire. They sought refuge from internal conflicts and slave raids. The Egba people, a subgroup of the Yoruba, established Abeokuta as a new settlement and a place of refuge. It became a major trade center, connecting the interior of Yorubaland with the coast.

The town consists of several sections or quarters (wards), each traditionally associated with a specific Egba subgroup. These sections are led by their own chiefs who collectively form a traditional council that advises the Alake of Egbaland, the paramount ruler of Abeokuta.

Abeokuta is a significant agricultural center, producing crops such as cocoa, palm oil, kolanuts, and rubber. Industries in the city include food processing, textiles, and brewing.

The city is home to several educational institutions, including higher learning facilities. It plays a vital role in the socio-political and economic landscape of Nigeria.