Olumo Rock, one of Nigeria’s most iconic heritage sites, was reopened earlier this year after an extensive renovation aimed at restoring its facilities, improving safety, and enhancing the experience of visitors.

The Ogun State Government has announced that the free entry initiative at the newly renovated Olumo Rock Tourist Complex in Abeokuta will officially end on Saturday, August 23, 2025.

To mark the commissioning, recall that Governor Dapo Abiodun on July 31, 2025, declared a free entry period, allowing both residents and tourists to visit the site without charge for two months, which was initially meant to elapse in September 2025.

The gesture, according to the government, was meant to encourage people to rediscover the cultural and historical significance of the rock.

Meanwhile, in the weeks that followed, the site witnessed what officials described as an “overwhelming and unprecedented” turnout. Families, school children, tourists, and researchers trooped in daily to climb the historic rock, explore its caves, and enjoy sweeping views of Abeokuta.

For many, it was a rare chance to visit the landmark without the barrier of gate fees.

The initiative quickly became a talking point across Ogun State, drawing attention to the state’s renewed push for tourism.

However, the influx of visitors soon presented challenges. Government officials explained that at peak periods, the numbers became difficult to manage.

The narrow stairways, observation points, and cultural shrines within the complex were often overcrowded, creating safety concerns.

According to the state, the risk of a stampede was narrowly avoided on a few occasions thanks to the intervention of security agencies and on-site personnel.

In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, authorities stressed that while the free access programme had achieved its purpose, it could no longer continue in its current form. “In view of this, and in line with government’s priority to safeguard lives, His Excellency has directed that the free entry initiative will come to an end on Saturday, 23rd August, 2025. Thereafter, normal access procedures will resume,” the statement read.

The government added that its focus moving forward will be on maintaining safety and ensuring that the Olumo Rock Tourist Complex remains a welcoming, enjoyable, and memorable destination for visitors from within and outside the country.

Olumo Rock, which rises 137 meters above sea level, has stood for centuries as both a natural wonder and a symbol of the Egba people’s resilience during the inter-tribal wars of the 19th century. Its modern-day significance extends beyond history, as it remains central to the cultural and tourism identity of Ogun State.