Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has described the iconic Cocoa House in Ibadan as more than a physical structure, calling it a living testament to resilience, unity, and visionary leadership that continues to inspire six decades after its completion.

The Governor made this remark in his goodwill message delivered by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, during the celebration of “Cocoa House at 60” held in Ibadan on Tuesday.

Sanwo-Olu noted that the visionaries who built Cocoa House laid their foundation on agriculture, urging today’s leaders to replicate that legacy through education, technology, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.

“Our calling is to dream bigger, to invest bolder, and to ensure that the next 60 years produce even greater stories,” he said.

The Governor also called for stronger regional cooperation among Southwest states to accelerate development and uplift the lives of their people, pledging Lagos State’s continued commitment to work hand-in-hand with sister states to unlock shared prosperity.

“Cocoa House was not just raised with bricks and mortar. It was built with the sacrifices of our farmers and the dreams of leaders who understood that investing wisely could secure tomorrow. That is why, even today, it continues to inspire us decades after,” Sanwo-Olu added.

He recalled that the landmark project was initiated by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and brought to completion in 1965 under the administration of Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola, then Premier of the Western Region.

Earlier in his address, Group Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, recounted the humble beginnings of Cocoa House and applauded Southwest governors for appointing competent hands to the company’s board.

The celebration featured a panel discussion titled “Evolution of High-Rising Building in Nigeria” moderated by Arc. Femi Agboola, where industry leaders discussed the emergence of skyscrapers and the importance of engaging professionals in construction projects.

Originally named Ile Awon Agbe (House of Farmers), Cocoa House was financed with £1.2 million derived from agricultural exports, particularly cocoa, rubber, and timber. A cocoa tree planted at its entrance still stands today as a symbolic reminder of its historic roots.

The event was graced by dignitaries including Olori Onikepo Akande, alongside children and grandchildren of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola, among other notable guests.