Nigeria is blessed with iconic monuments, historical landmarks and captivating destinations that draw tourists, both local and international, into its rich tapestry of history, culture and natural beauty. From ancient formations that have witnessed generations come and go to architectural landmarks that preserve the stories of a people, these sites remain enduring windows into the nation’s past. Among them is Olumo Rock, the historic natural fortress that rises majestically above Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State.
On Sunday, October 25, 2026, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) joined the stream of visitors to this remarkable landmark, taking some of its student leaders on an excursion to the historic site as the 2026 Annual Student Leaders’ Retreat drew to a close.
It was, in many ways, a fitting conclusion to a retreat that had taken the participants through different dimensions of learning, leadership development and personal growth. The journey began on Thursday, October 22, with a tour of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, where the students explored a centre dedicated to preserving history, leadership and national heritage.
The following day, Friday, October 23, attention shifted to the responsibilities and demands of student leadership. Through carefully structured sessions, participants received training in civic advocacy, financial management, the role of law in leadership and ethical leadership. The discussions emphasised accountability, responsible decision-making, integrity and the importance of placing the interests of others at the heart of leadership.
Saturday, October 24, brought another significant dimension to the retreat as the student leaders had the opportunity to learn from one of Nigeria’s most prominent political and military figures, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR.Speaking at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Abeokuta, Chief Obasanjo drew from his experiences in military and civilian leadership to challenge the students to embrace integrity, courage, sound judgement and accountability. His engagement offered practical insights into the demands of leadership, reinforcing the lessons of the preceding sessions and the imperative to lead with character, conviction and a strong sense of responsibility.
With these lessons still fresh, the retreat approached its conclusion on Sunday with an excursion that took the students beyond the lecture room and into a place where history spoke for itself.
At Olumo Rock, nature and history seemed to converge. Its imposing granite formations, rising above the surrounding landscape, offered more than breathtaking views; they told a story of courage, survival and the enduring resilience of a people.
During a guided tour of the site, the students learnt about the rock’s historical significance as a refuge for the Egba people during the 19th-century conflicts, particularly the wars involving Dahomey. They also gained insights into the people and generations whose contributions to its preservation have helped sustain this important heritage site for visitors.
For a moment, the towering rock formations became pages in an open history book, each revealing aspects of the struggles, ingenuity and resilience that shaped the community. What the students encountered was not merely a tourist attraction, but a remarkable historical landmark that has endured through generations.
Beyond its historical significance, the excursion offered the students an opportunity to appreciate the natural scenery, share laughter, strengthen friendships and create lasting memories. Cameras clicked, group photographs were taken, and the participants celebrated the camaraderie that had grown throughout the retreat.
Thus, after days of engaging discussions on leadership, governance and service, and an opportunity to draw from the experience of a former Nigerian President, the University delegation brought its retreat to a memorable close at a monument that has long symbolised protection, courage and resilience.
From the corridors of history at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library to the rugged heights of Olumo Rock, the retreat provided a journey through knowledge, heritage and shared experiences. It left the student leaders with more than notes from training sessions and photographs from an excursion; it offered a deeper reminder that leadership, like history, is ultimately defined by the footprints we leave behind, the values we uphold and the lives we touch along the way.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Samuel O. Dosunmu
