The Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode: Nigeria’s Hidden Cultural Landmark & Ancient Wonder

Philip SifonOctober 9, 20250782 views

Most people haven’t heard of it, but the Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode is one of Africa’s most remarkable and least-known landmarks.

Stretching over 160 kilometres, this ancient earthwork in Ogun State rivals some of the world’s most significant defensive structures, yet it remains tucked away from most travel lists.

Built centuries ago by the Ijebu people, it’s a story of skill, power, and tradition that still shapes the region’s identity. The Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode isn’t just a pile of old earth; it’s a reminder of how much history still lives beneath Nigeria’s soil.

In this article, we will examine where the wall is located, how it was built, the stories associated with it, and why it remains one of Nigeria’s most overlooked treasures.

History of the Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode

Hidden in the forests near Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State, the Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode, also known as Sungbo’s Eredo, is one of Nigeria’s oldest landmarks.

It runs for about 160 kilometres, with some sections rising nearly 20 metres, showing the effort that went into building it.

Most historians believe it was built between the 10th and 15th centuries to protect the Ijebu kingdom and control trade routes. Its size shows how well-organised the people were long before modern times.

Many locals associate the wall with Bilikisu Sungbo, a revered woman rumoured to rest nearby at Oke-Eri. Some even say she was the Queen of Sheba.

For the Ijebu people, the Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode is more than old earth; it’s a proud reminder of their history and the skill of those who came before them.

Why The Great Wall Of Ijebu-Ode Is Nigeria’s Hidden Wonder

The Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode stands out for its scale and quiet survival. While other cultural landmarks in Nigeria receive attention, this one remains unknown, hidden primarily in the forests of Ogun State.

Stretching about 160 kilometres, it could rank among Africa’s great historical sites, yet few people talk about it. That’s why it’s called Nigeria’s hidden wonder, an ancient work almost forgotten.

Few visitors reach the site today, though its trenches and clay walls show impressive skill. For those who do, it’s a clear look at Nigeria’s early history, still standing strong.

Preserving The Great Wall Of Ijebu-Ode

The Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode has stood for centuries, but time and neglect are slowly eroding it. While the site remains a vital part of Nigeria’s cultural history, it faces real challenges that need attention.

Let’s take a look at some key challenges and ongoing efforts for preservation:

Erosion and vegetation

Constant rainfall and plant overgrowth continue to weaken parts of the wall, leading to sections collapsing over time.

Low Awareness

Many Nigerians remain unaware of its existence, so it receives little public or government attention, slowing and underfunding preservation efforts.

Encroachment

Farmlands and nearby settlements are gradually encroaching on the wall’s original path, thereby reducing the area available for study or restoration.

Community and Research Support

Local groups and universities are working to study, document, and raise awareness about the wall’s historical importance, hoping to inspire more decisive preservation action.

UNESCO Recognition

Discussions to add the Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode to UNESCO’s World Heritage list are ongoing, which could attract global attention and funding for proper maintenance.

Keeping the Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode standing isn’t just about protecting old soil; it’s about preserving a living record of Nigeria’s creativity and history.

Tourism And Economic Potential Of The Great Wall Of Ijebu-Ode

The Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode holds more than historical value; it also carries untapped potential for tourism and local development. With proper investment and promotion, it could become one of Nigeria’s most important heritage destinations.

Here are some key ways the Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode can drive tourism growth and promote economic development in Nigeria:

1. Cultural Tourism Appeal

The Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode offers visitors a chance to experience one of the oldest earthworks in Africa, making it a top attraction for anyone interested in Nigeria’s cultural landmarks. Proper tour routes, guides, and information centres could draw both locals and international tourists.

2. Local Job Creation

Tourism development around the wall could create jobs for residents, from tour guiding and hospitality to craft sales and cultural events, boosting the local economy in Ogun State.

3. Educational And Research Tourism

As a site rich in history, the Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode could attract universities, historians, and students studying heritage sites in Nigeria, adding academic tourism to its value.

4. Community Empowerment

Involving nearby communities in managing and maintaining the wall would give them a sense of ownership, ensuring that Nigeria’s cultural heritage is preserved while also improving livelihoods.

5. Government And Private Sector Investments

Promoting the wall as part of broader Nigerian tourism could open the door to funding, infrastructure upgrades, and collaborations with heritage organisations.

Well managed, the Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode could become more than a forgotten site, proof that preserving Nigeria’s past can help build a stronger future.

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Why The Great Wall Of Ijebu-Ode Deserves More Recognition

The Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode deserves far more attention than it gets. Beyond its ancient walls lies a story of strength, unity, and innovation, proof that the Ijebu people built more than just barriers; they built history.

If properly preserved and promoted, this cultural landmark could stand beside other global heritage sites as a symbol of Nigeria’s rich past.

The Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode isn’t just an old structure; it’s a national treasure waiting to be appreciated, studied, and protected for generations to come.

Conclusion

The Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode remains one of Nigeria’s most remarkable yet overlooked landmarks.

Its history, cultural value, and tourism potential show how heritage can shape the future. Giving it the recognition it deserves means keeping Nigeria’s story alive, one wall at a time.

If you ever find yourself in Ogun State, take a trip to the Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode. Walk its ancient path, talk to locals, and see for yourself why this quiet wonder should stand among the world’s significant cultural landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who Built The Great Wall Of Ijebu-Ode?

Historians believe the ancient Ijebu people built the wall between the 10th and 15th centuries. Local legends also link it to a powerful woman named Bilikisu Sungbo, considered by some to be the Biblical Queen of Sheba.

2. What Was The Purpose Of The Great Wall Of Ijebu-Ode?

It was likely constructed as a defensive barrier to protect the Ijebu kingdom and control trade routes. The massive trenches and embankments show that they also served as signs of the kingdom’s wealth and organisation.

3. Is The Great Wall Of Ijebu-Ode Open To Visitors?

Yes, visitors can explore parts of the Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode, though access may require a local guide due to its location within forest areas. Tourism around the site is still developing, so visitors should plan.

4. Why Is The Great Wall Of Ijebu-Ode Called A Hidden Wonder?

It’s called a hidden wonder because, despite its impressive size and historical importance, many Nigerians and tourists still don’t know about it. The wall rivals ancient landmarks around the world but remains under-promoted.

5. What Efforts Are Being Made To Preserve The Great Wall Of Ijebu-Ode?

Local communities, historians, and cultural organisations are working to document and protect the site. There are also discussions about having the Great Wall of Ijebu-Ode listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which would help attract funding and international attention.