OYO State capital, Ibadan, covers a land mass of about 3080 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 3 million. Ibadan is home to many establishments and business organizations and the city has continued to grow in all ramifications. In case you are thinking of visiting Ibadan either to tour it for fun or to observe the city on a more serious note for its other potentials, here are four things to keep in mind:
- The transportation network: The system of transport in Ibadan is not very complex, but you have to know where you are going so as not to get exploited or confused. For example, two different locations in the city might have the same name and different routes. As a visitor to Ibadan, you need to have a clear map of where you are going and the fastest route that will get you there because the city is very large and one can easily get lost without proper direction.
- The historical sites: There are places you cannot enter in Ibadan without going through due processes. The historical and spiritual sites cannot be visited or investigated ordinarily as they might require certain rites that have to be performed. Ibadan is surrounded by hills and some of which are believed by the locals to possess spiritual powers. So if you are visiting Ibadan tourism, it is important for you to know the places to visit and how to get there.
- The people: The people of Ibadan are quite hospitable. However, to keep away from trouble, avoid arguments that can lead to quarrels as much as you can.
- The language: Ibadan people mainly speak the Yoruba language which is widely recognized as one of the major languages spoken in Nigeria. If you are visiting the rural and underdeveloped areas of Ibadan and you do not understand the language, you might need a translator that would help you communicate with the local villagers. However, a majority of the inhabitants of Ibadan understand the English language.
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