Ilesa

Ilesa is a historic city in Osun State, the capital of the Ijesa Yoruba kingdom. It is known for the Ilesa Grammar School, one of Nigeria's oldest secondary schools, and Wesley University of Technology. The Owa of Ilesa's palace is a traditional landmark. Ilesa's economy is driven by gold mining — the area is part of the Osun gold belt — and agriculture, particularly cocoa and cassava. The annual Ijesa Day festival celebrates the region's heritage.

By Plane

Akure Airport (AKR) in Ondo State is about 60 km east.

By Car / Road

Ilesa is on the Osogbo–Akure road, about 30 minutes east of Osogbo. Buses from Osogbo, Akure, and Lagos serve the city.

Keke and okada serve the city.

• Owa of Ilesa's Palace — the traditional palace

• Ilesa Grammar School — a historic colonial-era school

• Wesley University of Technology — a private university

• Gold mining areas — the Osun gold belt

• Visit the Owa's Palace

• Explore the gold mining areas

• Attend Ijesa Day — the annual cultural festival

Ijesa Yoruba cuisine at local restaurants.

Zobo, tea, and bottled drinks.

Guesthouses from ₦3,000–5,000.

Cocoa, gold jewellery, and traditional crafts.

• Osogbo — 30 min west
• Ile-Ife — 20 min south-west
• Akure — 1 hr east