The Oyo State Government has move to reshape Ibadan’s cultural and economic landscape and has signed a ₦5 billion concession agreement with SystemSpecs Whatadeal Africa (Whatadeal Limited) to rehabilitate and transform the historic Bower’s Tower into a world-class tourist destination. 
Perched majestically on Oke-Are Hill, the nearly 90-year-old Bower’s Tower stands as a enduring symbol of Ibadan’s rich history. Constructed in 1936 and named after Captain Robert Lister Bower, the first British Resident in Ibadan, the 60-foot structure with its iconic spiral “Layipo” staircase has long offered breathtaking panoramic views of the ancient city’s sprawling rooftops and hills.
Built to commemorate colonial contributions while serving as a watchtower against unrest, it quickly became woven into local identity — a must-visit landmark where, as residents proudly say, “Whoever comes to Ibadan and has not visited this Tower does not know Ibadan.” 
The partnership, formalized on April 23, 2026, at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, brings together public vision and private expertise through the Oyo State Investment and Public Private Partnership Agency (OYSIPA — likely the intended reference for “OYISPA”). Director-General Tilewa Folami highlighted the phased redevelopment aimed at elevating the site to global tourism standards while generating sustainable revenue for the state. 
Under the 15-year concession, Whatadeal Africa will lead a comprehensive rehabilitation and modernization within 18–24 months. The concession period itself begins only after this initial phase and a moratorium, ensuring the site is fully operational and viable before revenue-sharing kicks in. Plans include enhanced visitor experiences, improved infrastructure, and better road access to the hilltop site. 
Obafela “Fela” Bank-Olemoh, Managing Director of SystemSpecs Whatadeal Limited, praised the transparent, merit-based selection process and expressed enthusiasm for the project. “I’ll be leading the transformation of this iconic site into a world-class destination within 24 months,” he stated. The upgrade is expected to draw domestic and international visitors, stimulate local businesses, and create jobs, particularly for youths. 
This initiative aligns with Governor Seyi Makinde’s broader push to unlock the economic potential of heritage assets through public-private partnerships. It complements other milestones, such as the upgraded Ibadan Airport runway, positioning Oyo as a premier tourism and investment gateway. Whatadeal, which recently took on Olumo Rock in Ogun State, is bringing proven expertise in heritage tourism to the table. 
Once revitalized, Bower’s Tower promises not just preservation of the past but a vibrant new chapter — breathing fresh life into Ibadan’s skyline and economy while inviting the world to experience the heartbeat of this historic city from its panoramic heights.
The project underscores a forward-looking commitment: honoring history while building a thriving, visitor-ready future for Oyo State.
