Heritage buildings are more than architectural artifacts. More precisely, they are lots of critical caches such as; repositories of history, a dimensional link to the spirit of time & age, cultural identity, and a testament to the legacies of those who shaped societies.
Across the world, iconic structures like the Acropolis in Greece (Europe), the Taj Mahal in India (Asia), Machu Picchu in Peru (South America), and the great Pyramids in Egypt (Africa), serve as destinations for millions of tourists annually, reinforcing their host nations’ historical significance and driving economic growth through tourism. These structures are meticulously restored, not merely renovated or rehabilitated, to maintain their original character and relevance, in line with global best practices.
In Nigeria, the preservation of such buildings is critical for cultural integrity, Afrocentric historical documentation & chronology, and tourism development, just to mention a few. Unfortunately, many significant structures, like the mansion of Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola in Oke-Ado, Ogbomoso, are being left to decay. This building, once the residence of the Premier of the old Western Region and Aare Ona Kakanfo, embodies the history and spirit of the political age, a priceless heritage of the Yoruba people and Nigeria at large.
My attention was first drawn to this building in 2023 when an indigene, Mariam Taofeek, expressed her anguish about its dilapidated state. I later visited the mansion in 2024 to document its condition and found it overtaken by weeds and refuse, a painful reflection of neglect. Despite its donation to the Ladoke Akintola University of Science and Technology and approval for renovation by the university council, no significant progress has been made.
This neglect is not just a disservice to Chief S.L. Akintola’s legacy but also a missed opportunity for tourism and education. Proper restoration, not mere renovation, is essential to preserve the building’s historical essence. Restoration portends that such structures remain authentic, maintaining their cultural and historical relevance while aligning with international conservation standards.
Heritage buildings like this mansion could attract global tourists, researchers, and cultural pilgrims interested in the Yoruba people’s history and Nigeria’s political evolution. The neglect of these structures reflects poorly on regional governance and national pride.
I call on relevant stakeholders, including the government, academia, cultural preservation societies, and private individuals, to act immediately. We must rescue this mansion and similar structures before they are lost forever. Restoration efforts should prioritize authenticity, engage conservation experts, and include sustainable funding models to ensure longevity.
Let us draw inspiration from countries that have turned their heritage buildings into global attractions and reaffirm our commitment to preserving Nigeria’s history for future generations. The time to act is now.
