Ilorin: See
The city also has a range of tourist attractions such as the Sobi Hill which is said to have offered protection to natives during intertribal wars in ancient times. The Okuta Ilorin is located in Asaju's compound, Idi-Ape Quarters. It is the stone on which Ojo Isekuse, one of the founders of the city, used to sharpen his metal tools. It was actually called "Okuta ilo irin" (meaning stone for sharpening metals). It is from this tool, the town Ilorin derived its name. The stone was a deified object of worship, and sacrificial offerings were made to it in the past.
Pottery is a big business in Ilorin. The city has the biggest traditional pottery workshops in Nigeria. They are located in the Dada area of Okelele, Eletu in Oju-Ekun, Okekura, Oloje, Abe Emi and Ita Merin.
The traditional textile industry also thrives in Ilorin. In various parts of the city, aso-oke, textiles hand-woven on simple looms, are made in large quantities. Aso-oke is purchased by traders and fashion designers from Kwara State, other parts of Nigeria and abroad.
The cultural centre houses the Kwara State Council for Arts and Culture, its performing troupe, and a gallery with artworks and antiquities. Souvenirs of cultural and historical values are also available.
1 National Museum Ilorin, 14 Abdulkadri Road, Oko Erin, ☏ +234 803 863 7989. It has interesting cultural and ethnographic objects from Nigeria's many cultures. (updated Dec 2025)
2 University of Ilorin (Unilorin), PMB 1515. University of Ilorin campus. (updated Jun 2021)
3 Emir palace, lorin Central Mosque, Surulere Rd, ☏ +234 806 951 5108. (updated Nov 2025)
4 Tallest flagpole in west Africa, Unity Road, ☏ +234 806 951 5108. (updated Nov 2025)
5 Ilorin central mosque, Unity Road. (updated Nov 2025)
6 Sobi hills, Sobi Rd. (updated Nov 2025)