Osun State is located in southwestern Nigeria and was created on August 27, 1991, from the former Oyo State during the administration of General Ibrahim Babangida. Popularly known as the State of the Living Spring, its capital is Osogbo, and it consists of 30 Local Government Areas. The state shares boundaries with Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti and Kwara States. Major towns include Ile-Ife, Ilesa, Ede, Iwo and Ikirun. Osun State is widely recognised for its rich Yoruba cultural heritage, with Ile-Ife traditionally regarded as the ancestral home of the Yoruba people.

Osun State is known for its historical landmarks, tourist attractions, agricultural activities and educational institutions. One of its most famous attractions is the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. The state's economy is supported by agriculture, trading, mining, tourism and small scale industries, with major agricultural products including cocoa, cassava, yam and maize. With its cultural significance, growing residential communities and commercial activities, Osun State continues to offer opportunities for tourism, business and real estate development.

History of Osun State

The history of Osun State dates back several centuries, with strong roots in Yoruba civilisation. Ile-Ife, one of its major cities, is traditionally regarded as the ancestral and spiritual home of the Yoruba people and is closely associated with Oduduwa, a central figure in Yoruba history. Before British colonial rule, communities such as Ilesa, Iwo, Ede and Osogbo developed under various Yoruba kingdoms and traditional rulers. The region also witnessed major historical events, including the decline of the Oyo Empire and the Kiriji War of 1877–1893. Following Nigeria's independence in 1960, the area became part of the Western Region, later Western State in 1967 and Oyo State in 1976.

The movement for the creation of Osun State began as early as 1950, when traditional rulers and community leaders demanded greater administrative independence. After decades of political efforts, Osun State was officially created on August 27, 1991, from the former Oyo State under the military administration of General Ibrahim Babangida, with Osogbo chosen as its capital. Colonel Leo Segun Ajiborisha became its first military administrator, while Isiaka Adeleke became its first elected civilian governor in 1992. The state was named after the Osun River, which holds great cultural and spiritual significance in Yoruba tradition. Today, Osun State remains an important centre of Yoruba history and culture, with the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

Local Government Areas in Osun State

Osun State consists of 30 Local Government Areas (LGAs), with Osogbo serving as the state capital. These local governments are responsible for grassroots administration, community development and the delivery of essential public services. The state also has an Area Office in Modakeke, which is separate from the 30 LGAs.

Note: Osun State officially has 30 LGAs. The Modakeke Area Office is listed separately and does not increase the number of recognised LGAs to 31.

5 Fascinating things About Osun State

a). Home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Osun State is home to the famous Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. The sacred forest preserves ancient Yoruba traditions, shrines and sculptures. It also hosts the annual Osun Osogbo Festival, attracting visitors from Nigeria and around the world.

b). The Ancestral Home of the Yoruba People - (Ile Ife) is widely regarded in Yoruba tradition as the birthplace of Yoruba civilisation. The ancient city is associated with Oduduwa, an important figure in Yoruba history, and is home to the Ooni of Ife, one of the most prominent traditional rulers in Yorubaland.

c). The Famous Seven Level Waterfall - Osun State is home to Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls, also known as Olumirin Waterfalls. Located near Erin-Ijesha, this natural attraction is famous for its seven cascading levels, rocky surroundings and lush vegetation.

d). A Major Centre for Yoruba Arts and Culture - Osogbo has a rich artistic history and is associated with the internationally recognised Osogbo School of Art. The city is known for traditional sculptures, batik, painting and textile designs. Artists such as Susanne Wenger played important roles in preserving and promoting the region's artistic and cultural heritage.

e). Osun State Has Significant Gold Deposits - Cultural attractions, Osun State is known for its mineral resources, particularly gold deposits around Ilesa and surrounding communities. Gold mining has attracted investment interest to the state, making mineral exploration another important part of its economic potential alongside agriculture and trade.