The city, its people, and an unfolding story of wonder.
A City Arising
Much like Israel's Startup Nation, Ogbomoso is forging its own path to becoming a global destination—one that demonstrates what’s possible in often-overlooked places, especially when people commit to a vision and a place for the long term.
Ogbomoso is a city that has chosen to nurture its pastures, rather than looking outward for greener ones. As the forces of positive change in Ogbomoso continue to build toward a critical mass, eLab, alongside several partners, stands as a gatekeeper, extending a warm invitation and welcoming the world into the unfolding socio-economic wonder that is Ogbomoso.
Why Ogbomoso?
Over the years, several people have sought to ask from us, the reason for our decision to build from Ogbomoso. Ours is the answer of conviction. We believe Ogbomoso holds promises, like every other place in GOD’s created universe. Promises that only come to life when a people embrace the call to be rooted in, to love, and to take ownership of the places they’d call home.
We’ve chosen Ogbomoso as our home, and we're building it as a legacy for posterity and eternity. We build in hopes that we can present a template to the world of people who are hungry to build great things from small places, and indeed anywhere.
#OgbomosoIsOpen4Business
The future has an address, and it is Ogbomoso.
5 Degree-Awarding Tertiary Institutions
Ogbomoso houses leading institutions that are shaping tomorrow’s innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
50,000+ Skilled Workforce
An emerging talent hub. Ogbomoso is already home to over 50,000 skilled workers, earning recognition as one of Nigeria’s top destinations for human capital.
8th Best Performing City in Nigeria (2025)
Recognized by Statisense for its exceptional growth and performance across multiple sectors. Ogbomoso is not just a city—it’s a vision coming to life.
25-Year Development Vision
A bold future, built for sustainability. The 25-year development plan, championed by the Soun of Ogbomoso and leading industry figures, is designed to propel the city into its next phase of transformative growth.
2nd Largest Producer of Cashew in Nigeria
Ogbomoso is not just a producer—it is the second-largest producer of the highest-quality cashew in Nigeria, contributing 5% of global cashew production. The city is a major player in global agriculture.
Ease of Accessibility
Well-connected and centrally located, Ogbomoso is just 30 minutes from Ilorin Airport and a short 2–4 hour drive from Nigeria’s largest cities, Lagos and Ibadan—making it easy for people, goods, and ideas to move effortlessly.
655,000+ Population
Larger than sovereign states like Malta and Brunei, and comparable to global cities like Boston. Ogbomoso is home to a dynamic, growing, and diverse community with boundless potential.
Top 1000 Cities in the World (Oxford Economics Global Cities Index 2025)
Ogbomoso’s rise isn’t just local—it’s global. Ranked among the top 1000 cities worldwide, it’s gaining international recognition as a hub for innovation and opportunity.
257 Surrounding Villages
More than just a city—Ogbomoso is a critical gateway to Nigeria’s hinterlands. Its proximity to surrounding villages unlocks untapped potential for trade, growth, and resource development.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Ogbomoso is a city with deep cultural roots, blending rich traditions with forward-thinking innovation. Its antique landmarks and cultural vibrancy make it a place where history and progress coexist.
Poised to Become Oyo State’s New Capital
Ogbomoso is on the verge of becoming the new state capital of Oyo State—a monumental shift that will open the door to increased investments, political influence, and economic power.
A Growing Startup Ecosystem
Ogbomoso is already one of Nigeria’s leading startup ecosystems. With its entrepreneurial spirit, access to resources, and community-driven innovation, the city is rapidly becoming a beacon for investors, founders, and changemakers.
3rd Most Populated City in South-West Nigeria
Ogbomoso stands as a cornerstone of the south-west, poised to lead the next wave of economic growth and transformation, just behind Lagos and Ibadan.
120,270+ Hectares of Arable Land
A fertile ground for growth. With over 120,000 hectares of arable land, Ogbomoso is an epicenter of agricultural innovation, empowering agribusinesses to feed Nigeria—and the world.
The Secondary City Advantage
Ogbomoso is a secondary city with primary potential. With its lower cost of living, higher quality of life, and reduced congestion, the city offers the ideal environment for both businesses and residents to flourish.
N50+ Billion Cashew & Cassava Market
An economic powerhouse. Ogbomoso’s agricultural sector, with its booming cashew and cassava markets, is valued at over N50 billion, contributing significantly to both national and global trade.
Nerve City
Strategically positioned between Nigeria’s northern and southern regions, Ogbomoso is at the crossroads of national commerce, making it an essential logistics and trade hub with unrivaled access to major markets.
#ThisIsOgbomoso x City of the Bravehearts
Born in defiance and shaped by resilience, Ogbomoso began as a warrior’s refuge—founded by Soun Ogunlola, a hunter who carved out a safe haven for the displaced during an era of war and unrest. From its earliest days, the city earned its name through the bravery of its people, who stood against invasion, protected the vulnerable, and forged a culture grounded in strength, faith, and unity.
Today, that same spirit drives Ogbomoso’s bold aspirations to rise as a regional powerhouse—home to leading institutions, growing industries, and a new generation determined to build a future as legendary as its past. What began as a sanctuary of survival is now a hub of vision, innovation, and enduring pride.