Journalist and explorer Edward Wonder takes readers deep into Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, revealing why this Nigerian city is fast becoming known as an unsung sanctuary distinguished by its affordability, safety, and remarkable cultural harmony. Edward Wonder describes Ilorin as a city where "life moves at its own gentle pace", offering an environment that is "very quiet," "very peaceful," and "cool".
According to Edward Wonder and local residents, Ilorin is the perfect destination for anyone "getting tired of a Lagos life or this busy life" but still desiring "a taste of Lagos but with a bit of life no stress no hold ups". It is also the place for those "getting tired of northern life" but who still "want something closer to that life with the fusion of Lagos life".
This blending of influences ensures that if you "want a taste of every part of Nigeria," Ilorin is "where to get it". The culture of Ilorin is defined by its fusion. While the Yoruba tribe is naturally accommodating, the city features a blend of various tribes, including Hausa, Igbo, Fulani, Nupe, and Yoruba, fused together to create "one big community". This diversity is managed without religious discrimination; Edward Wonder notes that on a Sunday, you "can't even differentiate between Muslim and Christian".
A primary reason for Ilorin's appeal is its low cost of living. Edward Wonder emphasized that Ilorin is "one of the cheapest in Nigeria", stating that "everything in Ilorin is very cheap". It is a place where one can survive on a "very low budget" and "not have to spend a lot to survive".
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The city's infrastructure greatly enhances its livability. The roads are wide and clean. Edward Wonder credits the current governor, who is "doing a great job" in terms of "rules and many other things", with ensuring the city has "a good road now". Crucially, the city is defined by a nearly complete absence of traffic. Edward Wonder stated, "I don't think I've ever experienced traffic in Ilorin", noting that even on the "worse days like rainy season," traffic is usually very light, "maybe just 5 minutes". This allows residents to "get around easily without the usual rush and noise". While the weather can be "terribly hot" during the day, the evenings become "cool and refreshing," making it "perfect for relaxing outdoors or taking a walk". Ilorin is also a culinary hub. Edward Wonder encouraged visitors to taste Amala, the most popular food in Ilorin, which is typically served steaming hot with Abula (made up of Beans) and Ewedu, alongside assorted proteins like goat meat, fish, or cow beef.
Beyond the calm, Ilorin is rich in culture and history. Edward Wonder noted that every weekend, "especially on weekend from Friday Sunday in the lorry it's always like a festival day". The city hosts different cultural events, including horse competitions. The Da festival, which happens "every 3 days of salah," sees the streets filled with "colorful horses drummers traditional dancers and royal possessions". Edward Wonder also explored tourist attractions like the Owu Waterfall, located in Owu village, which is the "highest one in Africa". In Jabba, Edward Wonder visited the Mongo Park monument and the rail bridge that connects Niger and Kwara states, an "engineering masterpiece" constructed between 1909 and 1916. Jabba is also home to a dam that is a "power generating station that generate power 24 hours every day," providing the community with 24 hours of electricity.
However, Edward Wonder issued a call out to the tourism board in Nigeria to do something about the many historical and touristic sites, which are often in "dilapitated conditions". Edward Wonder argues that tourism "boosts the local economy," generating income for local tour guides and lodging businesses.
Finally, the University of Ilorin is highlighted by Edward Wonder as one of Nigeria's most respected institutions. Students, including those from Cameroon, praised the school for its discipline, serenity, conducive environment, and the fact that you can find "almost close to everything inside the school". When given the choice to study anywhere else in Nigeria, students told Edward Wonder, "We will choose Uni-Ilorin".
Edward Wonder concludes that Ilorin is an extremely good place to stay and live one’s life. It is safe, with residents able to "move anytime any day anytime anywhere in Ilorin freely". It is not just a place to visit; it is a place one could "easily call home".
