Fifty-Nine years after its construction, the O’dua Investment Company Limited (OICL), yesterday, commissioned the newly renovated Cocoa House Building, the tallest structure situated in the Western Region during the First Republic.

Oyo State Governor, Seye Makinde, while declaring the renovated portions of the edifice open, expressed optimism that other economic aspects of the Southwest region could be appropriately improved upon, not just for the beauty, but to also enhance the economic situation of the region and as well generate more employment.

Makinde, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Segun Ogunwuyi, restated his administration’s commitment to support OICL and every other initiative aimed towards improving the economic situation of the Southwest region.

The governor commended the achievements of the OICL so far but added that the region could as well do more with the resources available to it to enable it to thrive economically and socially.

In his speech, Chairman of OICL, Bimbo Ashiru, said the company is celebrating not just the commissioning of a renovated car park and enhanced surroundings but a continuation of its collective mission to sustain and strengthen the legacy of Odua Investment for future generations.

Ashiru further said that the renovation goes beyond improving aesthetics but also addresses critical aspects, such as safety, efficiency, and sustainability with enhanced traffic flow, improved security measures, and an organised parking system.

In his remarks, Group Managing Director/CEO of OICL, Abdulrahman Yinusa, said: “Cocoa House has stood tall for decades, symbolising the economic resilience and visionary leadership that our region has long been known for. As Nigeria’s first skyscraper, its history is intertwined with the success of the agricultural sector, specifically cocoa, which was the lifeblood of our economy at the time.

It stands today as a reminder of what we can achieve through dedication, innovation, and unity of purpose.” Director-General, Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN), SeyeOyeleye, said the Southwest region should be aiming at modern economic developments and innovation that could generate employment for its citizens as the leaders of the Western Region used Cocoa House to achieve in the 60s.