The 4 Best Things to do in Osun State

Osun state is a state in southwestern Nigeria, named for the river Osun – a vital river which flows through the state. Osun state was formed from the southeast of Oyo state on 27 August 1991 and has its capital as the city of Osogbo.

Nicknamed, land of virtue, Osun is full of several tourist attractions based on its rich history and the culture base of the Yoruba. It is considered a heritage site, with many interests for adventure lovers. Here are the four best things to do when you visit the land of virtue.

Visit Osun-Osogbo Grove:

This is a sacred grove along the banks of the Osun River, just outside the city of Osogbo. The grove is several centuries old and is among the last of the sacred forests that once bordered the edges of most Yoruba cities before urbanization. Historical consultants are present at the grove to give you the full detail of the tradition and history being preserved. Also, you will find an art village with tye and dye, paintings, wood carvings and so on. Every year, in August, the grove attracts tons of visitors and Osun worshippers.

Erin Ijesha Waterfall (Olumirin Waterfall):

Located in Erin-Ijesha Osun State, the waterfalls were discovered in 1140AD by one of the daughters of Oduduwa. However, another source says it was discovered by a woman named Akinla, founder of Erin-Ijesha town and a granddaughter of Oduduwa, during the migration of Ife people to Erin-Ijesha.

This is the only waterfall in Nigeria and Africa that has seven different layers, which the top leads to an entirely different community in a different state, called Abake. This means you end up visiting two states, Osun and Ekiti. Visitors hike and camp on the trail, and take in the wonders of Mother Nature.

Nike Art Centre:

This is one of the largest gallery of its kind in West Africa. It features a collection of about 8,000 diverse artworks from various Nigerian artists in all kind of media, paintings, sculptures, fabrics, metal and so on. The gallery also offer training free of charge to all Nigerians and has now trained over 3000 artists. This is one of the best places to explore African culture and art.

Queen Moremi Statue:

This statue was built in honor of Queen Moremi Ajasoro and it is located in Ile-Ife Osun State. The 42 feet statue, popularly called “Queen Moremi Statue of Liberty” is the tallest statue in Nigeria and the fourth tallest in Africa. Queen Moremi was a courageous, brave and beautiful woman who took it upon herself to liberate her people from oppression and raids from the Ugbo people. The statue gives you a sense of courage and proves that nothing is impossible.

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