Ondo State History: Culture, Economy & People

At a Glance

Capital	Akure
Geopolitical Zone	South West
Date Created	February 3, 1976
Created From	Created from the former Western State
Area	15,500 km²
Governor	Lucky Aiyedatiwa (APC) — since 2023
Nickname	Sunshine State
No. of LGAs	18

History of Ondo State

Pre-Colonial Ondo — Yoruba Kingdoms, Migration and Ancient Settlements

The history of present-day Ondo State stretches deep into the history of Yorubaland. Many of the major Yoruba communities in the state trace their origins through traditions of migration connected to Ile-Ife, regarded as the spiritual centre of Yoruba civilisation. Over many centuries, communities established independent kingdoms and settlements across the region.

The area was never governed by a single traditional authority. Instead, it developed through a network of kingdoms and communities, each with its own political institutions, royal traditions, chiefs and customary laws. Among the best-known historic kingdoms are Akure, Ondo, Owo, Ikale communities, Idanre and Akoko kingdoms.

The Owo Kingdom became particularly influential and developed a sophisticated artistic tradition. Archaeological discoveries associated with ancient Owo demonstrate connections between the kingdom and the wider Yoruba cultural world. The famous Owo ivories and other archaeological materials demonstrate the importance of the area as a centre of art and political culture.

The ancient settlement of Idanre, situated among spectacular hills, also developed a distinctive political and cultural identity. The old town, traditional palace, sacred sites and surrounding landscape remain important to the historical identity of Ondo State.

Akure, Ondo and Owo Kingdoms

The three major historic centres of Akure, Ondo and Owo developed powerful traditional institutions that continue to influence cultural life in the state.

Akure is traditionally ruled by the Deji of Akure and developed into an important political centre in central Ondo. Ondo town is ruled by the Osemawe of Ondo, whose institution is central to Ondo cultural identity. Owo is ruled by the Olowo of Owo, and the kingdom is internationally recognised for its archaeological and artistic heritage.

Other traditional institutions developed among the Akoko, Ikale, Ilaje, Idanre and other communities. These institutions preserved indigenous political structures, customary laws, festivals, oral traditions and systems of community organisation.

Colonial Ondo — British Administration and Western Education

British influence expanded into the region during the late nineteenth century as Britain consolidated control over Yorubaland and neighbouring territories. By the beginning of the twentieth century, the communities that make up present-day Ondo State had increasingly become incorporated into British colonial administration.

The colonial administration relied heavily on traditional rulers and chiefs through a system of Indirect Rule. Existing kingdoms and traditional institutions therefore continued to function, although their authority became subject to the colonial government.

Christian missionary activity expanded during the colonial period, contributing to the growth of Western education, literacy and Christianity. Mission schools played an important role in producing educated Nigerians who later entered the civil service, professions, politics, journalism and education.

Agriculture became increasingly integrated into regional and international trade. Cocoa, palm produce, rubber, timber, food crops and other agricultural products became important sources of income. The development of roads and commercial centres connected Ondo communities to Lagos and other parts of southwestern Nigeria.

Ondo After Independence — Western Region and State Development

When Nigeria became independent in 1960, the territory that now forms Ondo State was part of the Western Region. The region was one of the country's major political and educational centres, with strong Yoruba cultural institutions and rapidly expanding Western education.

In 1967, the Western Region was divided and the area became part of the new Western State. Following another round of state creation in 1976, Ondo State was established as a separate state on 3 February 1976.

The original Ondo State was much larger than the present state. It included territories that later became part of Ekiti State. When Ekiti State was created in 1996, it was carved out of Ondo State, reducing the geographical size of Ondo.

Creation of Ondo State in 1976

Ondo State was created on 3 February 1976 during the military administration of General Murtala Mohammed. It was created from the former Western State as part of a nationwide restructuring that increased the number of states in Nigeria.

Akure became the capital and administrative headquarters. The new state brought together communities with related but distinct Yoruba histories, including Akure, Ondo, Owo, Akoko, Idanre and Ikale areas, as well as riverine communities along the Atlantic coast.

The state subsequently underwent further territorial changes. In 1996, Ekiti State was created from the eastern part of Ondo State. The present-day Ondo State therefore represents the portion of the historic 1976 state that remained after the creation of Ekiti.

Modern Ondo — Agriculture, Oil, Bitumen and Tourism

Modern Ondo State has developed a diversified economy based on agriculture, crude oil, bitumen, fishing, forestry, commerce, manufacturing, education and tourism. The state has one of Nigeria's important agricultural belts, producing cocoa, oil palm, rubber, cassava, maize, plantain, cashew and other crops.

Ondo also has significant natural resources. The coastal and offshore areas contain crude oil and natural gas resources, while the state is widely recognised for its extensive bitumen deposits. Mining and quarrying activities also occur in several parts of the state.

Tourism has become an increasingly important development sector. Idanre Hills, the Owo Museum of Antiquities, coastal landscapes, waterfalls, forest reserves and traditional festivals provide opportunities for cultural and eco-tourism.

Akure has grown into a major administrative, commercial and educational centre. Other important urban centres include Ondo, Owo, Ikare-Akoko, Ore, Okitipupa, Igbokoda and Akungba-Akoko.

Political History of Ondo State

Ondo State has played an important role in southwestern Nigerian politics since its creation. Its political history has included periods of military administration, civilian government, electoral contests and significant political realignments.

The return to democratic rule in 1999 ushered in a new era of elected state governments. Since then, Ondo has experienced administrations led by different political parties and political coalitions.

The state has also produced prominent national politicians, lawyers, academics, civil servants, journalists and business leaders who have contributed to Nigeria's political and institutional development.

Geography of Ondo State

Topography

Ondo State has a highly varied physical landscape. The northern and central parts contain hills, ridges, uplands and undulating terrain, particularly around Akoko, Idanre and Akure. The southern part contains extensive lowlands, wetlands, mangrove areas, creeks and coastal environments along the Atlantic Ocean.

The Idanre Hills are among the most prominent geological and cultural landscapes in the state. They rise dramatically above the surrounding terrain and contain historic settlements, traditional sites and ancient pathways.

Rivers & Waterways

Major rivers and waterways include the Owena River, Oluwa River, Ogbese River, Ala River and Oni River. The southern riverine areas contain extensive creeks and waterways connected to the Atlantic coastal system. These waterways support fishing, transportation, wetlands and mangrove ecosystems.

Forests & Vegetation

Vegetation ranges from tropical rainforest and forest reserves in the southern and central areas to derived savanna in parts of the north. The state has extensive forest resources and agricultural landscapes. Coastal areas contain mangrove vegetation, freshwater swamps and wetlands that support fisheries and wildlife.

Climate

Climate type: Tropical wet and dry with strong coastal influence

Ondo has a tropical climate characterised by a lengthy rainy season and a shorter dry season. Rainfall is generally higher in the southern coastal areas than in the northern parts. The rainy season usually extends through much of the year, while the dry season is strongest between November and March. Harmattan conditions may occur during the dry season.

Bordering States

Ondo State shares boundaries with: Ekiti, Kogi, Edo, Osun, Ogun.

Culture & People of Ondo State

Ethnic Groups

Ondo State is predominantly Yoruba but has several culturally distinctive communities. Major groups include the Akure, Ondo, Owo, Akoko, Ikale, Ilaje, Idanre, Apoi and Ijaw communities, among others. These groups share broad Yoruba cultural connections while maintaining distinctive dialects, traditions, festivals and political institutions.

The riverine south contains communities whose culture has been shaped by fishing, waterways, coastal trade and interaction with neighbouring coastal peoples.

Languages

Yoruba is the dominant language, but Ondo contains several important dialects and linguistic varieties. Akure, Ondo, Owo, Akoko and Ikale communities have distinctive speech patterns. Ijaw and other languages are also spoken in some riverine communities. English is the official language of government and formal education.

Festivals & Celebrations

Ondo is known for numerous traditional festivals including the Igogo Festival of Owo, Orosun Festival of Idanre, Ogun festivals, Egungun celebrations, Mare Festival, Elefunta Festival, Odun Ijesu, Olokun celebrations and traditional royal festivals. Coastal communities also celebrate festivals connected with fishing, the sea and water-related traditions.

Traditional Food

Traditional food across Ondo includes pounded yam, yam, amala, eba, cassava, plantain, beans, rice, maize and a wide variety of vegetable and seafood dishes. Soups commonly include efo riro, egusi, okro and other Yoruba-style vegetable soups. In coastal areas, fish, crab, prawns and other seafood are especially important.

Traditional Attire

Traditional Yoruba clothing remains important during festivals, weddings, coronations and other ceremonies. Men commonly wear agbada, buba and sokoto and traditional caps, while women wear iro and buba, gele, wrappers and aso-oke. Different communities also maintain distinctive ceremonial clothing for traditional festivals.

Music & Dance

Traditional music includes talking drums, bata drums, sekere, gong and other Yoruba percussion instruments. Royal praise poetry, chants and songs are important components of traditional ceremonies. Festival performances combine music, dance, costumes and oral history.

Arts & Crafts

Ondo has a rich tradition of weaving, pottery, wood carving, beadwork, basketry, blacksmithing, textile production and ivory-related artistic heritage. Owo is particularly famous for archaeological and artistic discoveries, while traditional craft practices remain part of cultural life across many communities.

Traditional Rulers of Ondo State

Akure Kingdom

Deji of Akure: Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi

LGA: Akure South

The Deji of Akure is the traditional ruler of Akure, the capital of Ondo State. The Akure Kingdom has a long history within the wider Yoruba political tradition and has played an important role in the development of central Ondo. The Deji's palace remains an important cultural and traditional institution.

Ondo Kingdom

Osemawe of Ondo: Oba Victor Kiladejo

LGA: Ondo West

The Osemawe of Ondo is the traditional ruler of Ondo Kingdom. Ondo town is one of the historic Yoruba centres of the state and is known for its distinctive cultural traditions, royal institution and annual festivals.

Owo Kingdom

Olowo of Owo: Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III

LGA: Owo

The Olowo of Owo is the traditional ruler of Owo Kingdom. Owo is internationally recognised for its archaeological discoveries, especially ancient ivory and terracotta works. The Owo Museum of Antiquities preserves important objects associated with the kingdom's history.

Idanre Kingdom

Owa of Idanre: Oba Fredrick Aroloye

LGA: Idanre

The Owa of Idanre is the traditional ruler of Idanre. The kingdom is closely associated with the spectacular Idanre Hills and the ancient hill settlement. Idanre's historic landscape contains traditional palaces, sacred sites and archaeological features.

Ikale Kingdoms

Traditional rulers of Ikale communities: Various traditional rulers

LGA: Okitipupa

The Ikale-speaking area contains several traditional communities and royal institutions. Ikale culture is distinctive within Ondo State and is strongly associated with agriculture, fishing, coastal trade and the southern part of the state.

Akoko Kingdoms

Various traditional rulers: Various traditional rulers

LGA: Akoko North-East

The Akoko area consists of numerous historic communities and traditional institutions in northern Ondo. Akoko culture developed through interaction among several Yoruba-speaking communities and has a rich tradition of festivals, royal institutions and agriculture.

Ilaje Traditional Communities

Various traditional rulers: Various traditional rulers

LGA: Ilaje

The Ilaje area contains coastal and riverine communities whose traditional institutions and cultural practices are strongly connected to fishing, waterways, the sea and coastal commerce. The region forms an important part of Ondo's maritime heritage.

Economy of Ondo State

Ondo State has one of the more diversified economies in southwestern Nigeria. Major economic sectors include agriculture, oil and gas, bitumen, fishing, forestry, mining, commerce, manufacturing, education, construction and tourism.

The state has a large agricultural base and is one of Nigeria's important cocoa-producing areas. Its southern coastal zone adds fishing, marine resources and offshore petroleum to the economic structure. Bitumen deposits also provide long-term opportunities for mining, refining and road-construction industries.

Agriculture

Major agricultural products include cocoa, oil palm, rubber, cassava, yam, maize, plantain, banana, cashew, kolanut, citrus and vegetables. Cocoa production is especially important in several agricultural communities, while oil palm and rubber are important tree crops. Fishing is a major livelihood in the riverine and coastal areas.

Natural Resources

Ondo has significant deposits of bitumen, crude oil, natural gas, limestone, granite, kaolin, clay, feldspar, silica sand, gold and other solid minerals. The state's bitumen belt is considered one of its most significant mineral endowments. Offshore petroleum resources occur along the coastal area.

Industries

Industrial activity includes agro-processing, cocoa processing, palm-oil processing, rubber processing, food production, quarrying, building materials, furniture, construction and petroleum-related services. Ondo's agricultural base provides opportunities for additional agro-industrial development.

Commerce & Trade

Akure is the state's main commercial and administrative centre. Other important markets and commercial centres include Ondo, Owo, Ikare-Akoko, Ore, Okitipupa, Igbokoda and Akungba-Akoko. Agricultural produce, fish, timber, building materials, consumer goods and manufactured products are traded throughout the state.

Government of Ondo State

Since its creation, Ondo State has been governed by the following:

#	Name	Party	Period	Note
1	Lucky Aiyedatiwa	APC	2024 — Present
2	David Jemibewon		1976 — 1978	Military Governor — served as the first Military Governor of the newly created Ondo State.
3	Sunday Tuoyo		1978 — 1979	Military Governor — served during the final phase of military administration before the return to civilian rule.
4	Adekunle Ajasin	UPN	1979 — 1983	Civilian Governor — elected Governor during the Second Republic and associated with the political tradition of the old Western Region.
5	Bamidele Olumilua	NPN	1983 — 1983	Civilian Governor — briefly served before the military coup that ended the Second Republic in December 1983.
6	Michael Ajasin		1984 — 1985	Military administration period following the 1983 coup.
7	Sunday Abatan		1985 — 1987	Military Governor — served during the military administration of General Ibrahim Babangida.
8	Bamidele Olumilua		1987 — 1988	Military Governor — served during the period of military restructuring and administration.
9	Ekundayo Opaleye		1988 — 1989	Military Administrator — served during the transition period of military administration.
10	Bamidele Olumilua		1989 — 1990	Military administration period in Ondo State.
11	Emmanuel Iwejora		1990 — 1991	Military Administrator — served during the later years of General Ibrahim Babangida's administration.
12	Sunday Ajibade Oni		1991 — 1992	Military Administrator — served during the transition to the Third Republic.
13	Bamidele Olumilua	SDP	1992 — 1993	Civilian Governor — served during the short-lived Third Republic.
14	Moses Fasanya		1993 — 1994	Military Administrator — served after the military takeover of the Third Republic.
15	Adebayo Adefarati		1994 — 1999	Military Administrator — served during the Abacha military administration and the transition period leading to the Fourth Republic.
16	Adebisi Akindele	AD	1999 — 2003	Civilian Governor — elected during the 1999 transition to democratic government.
17	Olusegun Mimiko	LP	2009 — 2017	Civilian Governor — served two terms. He first assumed office in 2009 following a legal and electoral dispute and was re-elected in 2012.
18	Olusegun Agagu	PDP	2003 — 2009	Civilian Governor — served from 2003 until 2009 and was involved in major infrastructure and development programmes.
19	Rotimi Akeredolu	APC	2017 — 2023	Civilian Governor — elected in 2016 and inaugurated in 2017. He was re-elected in 2020 for a second term.
20	Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa	APC	2023 — Present	Civilian Governor — became Governor following the death of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu in December 2023. He subsequently won the 2024 Ondo State governorship election and remains Governor.

Full governors history →

Education & Institutions in Ondo State

Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko State — Est. 1999 — Akoko South-West LGA
Federal University of Technology, Akure Federal — Est. 1981 — Akure South LGA
University of Medical Sciences, Ondo State — Est. 2015 — Ondo West LGA
Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji Federal — Est. 2020 — Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo LGA
Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo State — Est. 1979 — Owo LGA
Ondo State Polytechnic, Owo State — Owo LGA
Elizade University Private — Est. 2012 — Ilara-Mokin LGA
Achievers University Private — Est. 2007 — Owo LGA

Landmarks & Tourist Attractions in Ondo State

Idanre Hills

Idanre LGA

Idanre Hills is one of the most famous natural and cultural attractions in Ondo State. The spectacular landscape rises above the surrounding plains and contains the remains of the old Idanre settlement, traditional palace, sacred locations, ancient steps and historical features.

The site is associated with the historic Owa of Idanre and the ancient hill settlement. The hills are recognised internationally for their combination of natural scenery, cultural heritage and archaeological significance.

Owo Museum of Antiquities

Owo LGA

The Owo Museum of Antiquities preserves important archaeological and cultural materials associated with the ancient Owo Kingdom. Its collections include royal objects, archaeological discoveries, traditional art and historical materials.

The museum provides visitors with an opportunity to understand the history of Owo and its place within the wider Yoruba artistic tradition.

Owo Palace

Owo LGA

The traditional palace of the Olowo of Owo is an important cultural landmark in Owo. The palace represents the political and cultural continuity of the Owo Kingdom and is associated with royal ceremonies, traditional governance and the preservation of history.

Igbo Olodumare

Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo LGA

Igbo Olodumare, also known as the Forest of the Almighty, is a culturally significant forest near Oke-Igbo. It is strongly associated with Yoruba mythology and was popularised through the literary works of Nigerian writer D. O. Fagunwa.

The forest has spiritual and cultural importance and forms part of the heritage of the surrounding communities.

Oke Maria

Idanre LGA

Oke Maria, also called Maria Hill, is a prominent religious and pilgrimage destination around Idanre. The elevated site combines religious significance with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Igbokoda Waterfront

Ilaje LGA

The Igbokoda Waterfront is located in the riverine Ilaje area of southern Ondo State. The waterfront is associated with fishing, waterways, mangrove environments and coastal livelihoods. It offers opportunities for boat trips, eco-tourism and exploration of Ondo's maritime heritage.

Akure Forest Reserve

Akure South LGA

The Akure Forest Reserve represents an important forest ecosystem near the state capital. The reserve contains vegetation and wildlife resources and provides opportunities for ecological research, environmental education and nature-based tourism.

Ebomi Lake

Akoko South-West LGA

Ebomi Lake is a natural attraction associated with Ipesi-Akoko. The lake is surrounded by local stories and traditions and forms part of the network of natural attractions in northern Ondo State.

All landmarks →

Notable People from Ondo State

Rotimi Akeredolu (1956–2023) — Senior Advocate of Nigeria, former President of the Nigerian Bar Association and Governor of Ondo State from 2017 until his death in 2023.
Wole Soyinka (1934) — Nobel Prize-winning Nigerian writer, playwright and intellectual with strong Yoruba cultural connections and national influence.
Gani Fawehinmi (1938–2009) — Prominent Nigerian lawyer, human-rights activist, publisher and political campaigner.
D. O. Fagunwa (1903–1963) — Pioneer Yoruba-language novelist and author of works including The Forest of Olodumare, which helped popularise Yoruba mythology and oral traditions.

Politics & Government

Obafemi Awolowo (1909–1987) — Prominent Nigerian nationalist, politician and statesman associated with the political and educational development of the old Western Region and Yoruba society.
Adekunle Ajasin (1908–1997) — First elected civilian Governor of Ondo State during the Second Republic and an important figure in Yoruba political history.
Adebayo Adefarati (1934–2007) — Former Governor of Ondo State and prominent political figure who served as military administrator and later as civilian governor.
Olusegun Mimiko (1957) — Former Governor of Ondo State and medical doctor who served two terms from 2009 to 2017.
Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa (1965) — Governor of Ondo State. He became governor in 2023 and won the 2024 governorship election.
Reuben Fasoranti (1927) — Elder statesman, teacher and prominent Yoruba political figure associated with Ondo State and national public affairs.

Academia

Toyin Falola (1953) — Prominent Nigerian historian and professor known for extensive scholarship on African, Nigerian and Yoruba history.

Sports

Olumide Oyedeji (1981) — Nigerian basketball player and former national team captain who represented Nigeria internationally.

Full notable people list →

Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Ondo State

Ondo State has 18 Local Government Areas:

Akoko North-East — HQ: Ikare-Akoko Northern Ondo LGA centred on Ikare-Akoko. The area is known for agriculture, commerce, hills and the distinctive cultural heritage of the Akoko people.
Akoko North-West — HQ: Okeagbe Northern Ondo LGA containing Okeagbe and other historic Akoko communities. Agriculture and local commerce are important economic activities.
Akoko South-East — HQ: Isua-Akoko Akoko LGA containing Isua and other communities. The area has a strong agricultural base and distinctive traditional institutions.
Akoko South-West — HQ: Oka-Akoko LGA centred on Oka-Akoko and home to Akungba-Akoko, a major university town. Agriculture, education and commerce are important to the local economy.
Akure North — HQ: Iju/Itaogbolu LGA immediately north of the state capital. It contains agricultural communities and serves as part of the wider Akure metropolitan economic area.
Akure South — HQ: Akure Capital LGA of Ondo State and location of Akure city. It contains major government institutions, markets, universities, businesses, cultural landmarks and transport infrastructure.
Ese-Odo — HQ: Igbekebo Riverine LGA in southern Ondo with extensive waterways, fishing communities, wetlands and coastal cultural influences.
Idanre — HQ: Idanre Historic LGA and home of the famous Idanre Hills. Agriculture, tourism and traditional cultural institutions are major features.
Ifedore — HQ: Igbara-Oke Central Ondo LGA containing Igbara-Oke and other agricultural communities. The area benefits from its proximity to Akure and major road networks.
Ilaje — HQ: Igbokoda Coastal and riverine LGA known for fishing, waterways, mangroves, marine resources, oil and gas activity and the Igbokoda waterfront.
Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo — HQ: Ile-Oluji Agricultural LGA containing Ile-Oluji and Oke-Igbo. The area is known for cocoa and other crops and is associated with the culturally important Igbo Olodumare forest.
Irele — HQ: Ode-Irele Southern Ondo LGA in the Ikale-speaking area. Agriculture, commerce and traditional cultural institutions are important to the local economy.
Odigbo — HQ: Ore Large southern LGA centred on Ore, an important commercial and transport hub linking southwestern Nigeria. Agriculture, trade and logistics are major activities.
Okitipupa — HQ: Okitipupa Important southern Ondo town and centre of the Ikale area. Agriculture, commerce, education and oil-related activities contribute to the local economy.
Ondo East — HQ: Bolorunduro LGA east of Ondo town with agricultural and riverine communities. Farming and local commerce are important sources of livelihood.
Ondo West — HQ: Ondo Historic Ondo LGA and home to Ondo town, seat of the Osemawe. The area is important for agriculture, commerce, education and cultural heritage.
Ose — HQ: Ifon Northern Ondo LGA headquartered at Ifon. Agriculture, forestry, quarrying and local trade are important economic activities.
Owo — HQ: Owo Historic Owo Kingdom and major northern Ondo commercial centre. Owo is famous for archaeological discoveries, traditional art, the Owo Museum and the Olowo palace.

Detailed LGA information →

Did You Know? — Ondo State Facts

Ondo State was created on 3 February 1976 from the former Western State.
Akure is the capital and administrative centre of Ondo State.
Ondo State is popularly known as the Sunshine State.
Ondo State has 18 Local Government Areas.
Ondo State is located in Nigeria's South West geopolitical zone.
Ondo State borders Ekiti, Kogi, Edo, Osun and Ogun states and has an Atlantic Ocean coastline.
Ondo State is predominantly Yoruba but contains culturally distinctive Akoko, Akure, Apoi, Ijaw, Ikale, Ilaje, Ondo, Owo and other communities.
The state has one of Nigeria's important cocoa-producing areas and also produces oil palm, rubber, cassava, yam, maize, plantain and other crops.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ondo State

What is Ondo State known for?

Ondo State is known for its Yoruba cultural heritage, cocoa and agricultural production, crude oil, extensive bitumen deposits, forests, Atlantic coastline, traditional kingdoms and tourist attractions such as Idanre Hills and the Owo Museum of Antiquities.

What is the capital of Ondo State?

The capital of Ondo State is Akure. Akure is the political, administrative, commercial and educational centre of the state.

When was Ondo State created?

Ondo State was created on 3 February 1976 from the former Western State during the military administration of General Murtala Mohammed.

Who is the current Governor of Ondo State?

The current Governor of Ondo State is Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He became governor in December 2023 following the death of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and later won the 2024 governorship election.

How many Local Government Areas are in Ondo State?

Ondo State has 18 Local Government Areas: Akoko North-East, Akoko North-West, Akoko South-East, Akoko South-West, Akure North, Akure South, Ese-Odo, Idanre, Ifedore, Ilaje, Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo, Irele, Odigbo, Okitipupa, Ondo East, Ondo West, Ose and Owo.

What language is spoken in Ondo State?

Yoruba is the dominant language in Ondo State, although the state contains several distinctive Yoruba dialects and linguistic communities. English is the official language of government and formal education, while Ijaw and other languages are spoken in some communities.

What ethnic group is Ondo State?

Ondo State is predominantly Yoruba. Major indigenous communities include Akoko, Akure, Apoi, Idanre, Ijaw, Ikale, Ilaje, Ondo and Owo groups, each with distinctive cultural traditions and dialects.

Why is Ondo State called the Sunshine State?

Ondo State is popularly known as the Sunshine State, a nickname associated with its location in southwestern Nigeria, generally warm climate and sunny weather. The appellation has become an important part of the state's public identity.

Other South West States

All South West States →