Captain Bowers Tower – A colonial Monument in the heart of Ibadan.

Captain Bowers Tower Ibadan – Within the city of Ibadan lies a colonial Tower which is about sixty feet tall and has been in existence for over eight decades. The Bowers Tower was strategically located and serves as a watch Tower which gives a three-sixty view of the city of Ibadan located in Southwest Nigeria. It is one of the most popular tourist attraction in Ibadan.

At the top of Bowers tower, you get a panoramic view of the city of Ibadan. From the top of the tower, you can see some important landmarks such as the Cocoa House, the University College Hospital (UCH), Polytechnic of Ibadan, The University of Ibadan, Agodi gardens just to mention a few. The tower gives a 360 birds-eye view of the city of Ibadan. No wonder the locals call it Oke Layipo which can be translated as the Mount of turn around. This is because at the top lies a platform where you can make a three-sixty degrees turn.

Why was It built?

Bowers tower was built as a memorial monument in honour and memory of Captain Bowers the first resident and travel Commissioner of interior Yoruba. He was appointed by Queen Elizabeth in 1893 to oversee and put an end to the unending wars between the different Yoruba kingdoms.

Bowers Tower was constructed in 1936 and unveiled in memory of Captain Robert Lister Bower the Resident and Travel Commissioner of interior Yoruba in Ibadan. The location was perfect because it is located on a hill which is the highest point in the city. From this hill, you can see almost every part of the Ibadan.

Who Built Bowers Tower?

Bowers tower was built by the same engineer that built and designed Mapo Hall. It has 47 spiral staircase which was designed by Taffy Jones that leads to the top of the tower. Taffy Jones is the same engineer that built Mapo hall, another historical monument in Ibadan.

The Tower was named in honour of the first Resident and Travelling Commissioner of Interior Yorubaland Captain Ross L. Bower. Bowers Tower comes has two entrances which usher you to to a spiral staircase that leads to the top of the tower.

Things to Do At Bowers Tower

Though the main attraction here is the tower, however, there are a couple of activities you can do here

• Enjoy the panoramic view of the City
• Climb the 47 spiral staircase
• Identify major landmarks from the top
• Take beautiful pictures of the city
• Organise a picnic

Things to Take Along

1. Camera or camera phone
2. Power bank
3. Snacks and drinks

What to Wear to Bowers Tower

Since it involves climbing it is advisable to wear something comfortable or sporty Wear sports shoes, avoid heels or slippers if possible.

Landmarks you can See from the top of Bowers tower

• University College Hospital (UCH)
• University of Ibadan
• Cocoa House
• Dugbe Market
• Agodi Gardens
• Iwo Road
• Ife Road
• Olorunsogo
• The defunct Lagos /Ibadan Toll Gate and guess
• Beere
• Mo­kola
• Lekan Salami Sports Complex
• Cultural Centre
• Oje
• Yemetu etc

Location of Bowers Tower

The sixty feet monument was built on Oke Are Hill at Igbo Agala in Ibadan, it is the highest of the seven hills surrounding the city.

It is located at Oke Are, Ibadan North Local Government Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

Opening Hours

Bowers Tower opens from 9 am to 5 pm

Gate Fee to Bowers Tower

The gate fee to Bowers tower is Two Hundred Naira (N200) about $0.45 per individual

Other Things to Note

If you are visiting this tower, make sure you come with your food and drinks, also do not stay late or come too early. It is located outskirt the main town with couples of development and along the lonely road that leads to the destination. Getting foods or drinks is almost impossible when you arrive here.

 Other Tourist attractions in Ibadan Close to Bowers Tower

1. Mapo Hall
2. Agodi Gardens
3. University of Ibadan Zoo
4. Cocoa House
5. National Museum Ibadan

If you are thinking of the next adventurous things to do or what to add to your bucket lists. Do not forget to add this and next time you visit Ibadan, do not hesitate to stop by at this colonial tower to catch a glimpse of the beautiful city of Ibadan. If you are looking for an adventurous trip to Ibadan. Travelwaka offers packaged and private tours. Feel free to send us a message.