The Adenike Kayode Fabunmi International Foundation (AKFIF) team embarked on a breathtaking adventure on June 10th, 2025, as part of activities to mark the foundation’s 6th year anniversary. The destination was the legendary Idanre Hill a place rich in history, mystery, and cultural pride, located in Ondo State, Nigeria.

The team bravely climbed the 660 ancient steps leading to the top of the hill, stopping briefly at the five designated resting spots. At the summit, we were transported into a world where nature, history, and tradition live in harmony.

We visited the first primary school in Idanre, established in 1896, standing as a symbol of early education among the hill dwellers. We also explored the ruins of the colonial court and prison, once used during British rule, offering a glimpse into the hill’s interaction with colonial authorities.

One of the most intriguing discoveries was the one-way war path a narrow trail used by the people of old Idanre to defend themselves. Enemy warriors were lured through the path and pushed into a hidden pit, a brilliant strategy used for protection in ancient times.

The AKFIF team also toured the Owa’s Palace (home of the king) and the Babalawo’s hut (the royal spiritual adviser), both of which carry deep cultural and spiritual importance. We learned about the tradition of preserving head cow skulls, each representing a year in a king’s reign an age old method of keeping royal records.

A truly spiritual moment came when we reached the sacred spring where locals believe one can make a wish, drink from the water, and if thunder rolls afterward, it’s taken as a sign. Though we hoped to visit the sacred Orosun Shrine, access was restricted due to preparations for the Orosun Festival, an annual event in honor of the goddess of fertility.

We also stood in awe before the legendary footprint of Agboogun, the hunter credited with discovering the hill, and viewed ancient inscriptions carved into the rock symbols that remain undeciphered to this day.

The visit was not just a tour it was a soul-stirring experience. The AKFIF team came down the hill not only filled with awe, but with a deeper appreciation of our heritage, culture, and the stories of those who came before us.

The 6th anniversary celebration of AKFIF was truly etched in history on the sacred stones of Idanre Hill.

More photos below…