If you’re exploring property investment or looking to build a home in Ibadan, one name you’ll keep hearing is Kolapo Ishola Estate. Located in Akobo — one of the city’s most developed areas, this estate has become a benchmark for modern living, urban planning, and long-term real estate value in Oyo State.
But what exactly makes Kolapo Ishola Estate stand out? Is it worth the high prices? What’s the living experience like? And is it a good investment?
This comprehensive guide answers all your questions, covering its location, infrastructure, pricing, property options, lifestyle, and long-term value. Whether you’re buying to build, to rent out, or to live in, here’s everything you need to know.
Where is Kolapo Ishola Estate?
Kolapo Ishola Estate is located in Akobo, along the General Gas–Akobo road in Ibadan North-East Local Government Area of Oyo State.
This area is one of Ibadan’s most strategically positioned neighborhoods — with fast access to:
- Agodi Gardens (15 mins)
- Ventura Mall (10 mins)
- University College Hospital (UCH) (20 mins)
- Iwo Road (15 mins)
- Dugbe Business District (25 mins)
Its proximity to commercial, residential, and entertainment zones makes it one of the best-located estates in Ibadan.
The History and Development of Kolapo Ishola Estate
Named after the former Oyo State governor Colonel Kolapo Ishola, this estate was developed as a Government Reserved Area (GRA) by the state government. It was intended to offer a modern, structured, and fully residential community, a stark contrast to the unregulated sprawl common in many parts of the city.
From the outset, the estate was designed to attract professionals, civil servants, politicians, and upwardly mobile residents looking for a secure, organized place to live. Over the years, it has evolved into Ibadan’s most prestigious address outside Bodija and Jericho GRA.
SEE ALSO: Land Use Charge
What Makes Kolapo Ishola Estate Different?
1. Gated Security
Kolapo Ishola Estate is fully fenced, with only one main entrance gate, manned by uniformed, trained security personnel. CCTV cameras are installed at key locations. Security checks are strict. Visitors must be logged before entering, and unauthorized entry is discouraged. As a result, crime is almost non-existent within the estate.
2. Urban Planning and Infrastructure
The estate features wide, well-tarred roads with properly constructed drainage systems. Street names are labeled, and plots are systematically allocated. Unlike many parts of Ibadan where roads are narrow, poorly maintained, or missing altogether, Kolapo Ishola Estate feels like an organized urban environment.
3. Consistent Electricity
Although not immune to the national power supply issues, Kolapo Ishola Estate enjoys more stable electricity than surrounding neighborhoods. This is due to dedicated transformers, better distribution infrastructure, and community coordination with IBEDC.
4. Clean Water Supply
Most homes have access to deep boreholes and estate-level water infrastructure. Residents often rely less on water vendors or unreliable public supply.
5. Cleanliness and Waste Disposal
Waste collection is centrally managed, with trucks servicing the estate multiple times weekly. This keeps streets clean and avoids the public health issues common in many informal settlements.
What Type of Properties Are Available?
Kolapo Ishola Estate offers three main categories of real estate:
1. Land (Plots)
- Sizes: Mostly 600–800 sqm
- Titles: Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
- Price (2025): ₦30 million to ₦45 million per plot.
Most plots are fully serviced, with access to roads, power, and drainage. Land is ideal for families who want to build custom homes or for long-term investors seeking capital appreciation.
Lands For Sale in Akobo, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria.
2. Built Homes
The estate features various types of already-constructed houses:
- 4-6 Bedroom Duplexes: ₦85M to ₦150M
- Terraces & Semi-Detached Homes: ₦65M to ₦90M
3-Bedroom Flats: ₦35M to ₦60M
Most properties come with ensuite rooms, large kitchens, tiled floors, POP ceilings, solar or inverter wiring, and secured gates.
3. Rentals
Renting is very competitive in Kolapo Ishola Estate due to the comfort and prestige of living there. Prices include:
2-Bedroom Flats: ₦1.8M – ₦2.5M/year
3-Bedroom Apartments: ₦2.5M – ₦3.5M/year
Duplexes: ₦4M – ₦6M/year
Because of high demand, most houses are rented out before they’re listed publicly.
ALSO READ: 5 Best Areas to live in Ibadan
Who Lives in Kolapo Ishola Estate?
- Residents are a mix of:
- Government officials
- Business owners
- Diaspora Nigerians
- Private sector professionals
- Retirees seeking peace and privacy
The estate has a relatively high entry cost, which means residents tend to be middle to upper class. However, this exclusivity contributes to the peaceful, quiet nature of the environment.
Is Kolapo Ishola Estate a Good Investment?
Yes — and here’s why:
1. Rapid Appreciation
In the last 5–7 years, land price in the estate have doubled or tripled. A plot that cost ₦15 million in 2018 now sells for ₦35–₦45 million. As Ibadan continues to expand eastward, demand for land in secure, well-located estates like this will continue to grow.
2. High Rental Yield
Unlike many estates where tenants struggle to pay rent, Kolapo Ishola attracts professionals and corporate tenants who can pay ₦2M+ per year without issues. If you build a duplex and rent it out, you can earn over ₦5M annually.
3. Low Vacancy Risk
There’s always a waiting list for homes here. Real estate agents often pre-book units months before they’re available. This reduces the risk of unoccupied properties, making it a great buy-to-let location.
4. Airbnb/Shortlet Potential
Due to its exclusivity, Kolapo Ishola Estate is one of the best shortlet zones in Ibadan. Diaspora Nigerians coming home for holidays or events often prefer shortlets here instead of hotels.
What Are the Challenges?
No estate is perfect. Here’s what to be aware of:
- High entry price: Land and homes are more expensive than most Ibadan locations.
- Strict building codes: You must follow estate guidelines when constructing — including setbacks, fencing, and elevation rules.
- Limited commercial activity: No shops, bars, or noisy religious centers are allowed, which protects residential quality but limits convenience.
Buying Process: How to Purchase Property in Kolapo Ishola Estate
1. Contact a Verified Agent
Work with realtors who have experience in the estate and can show actual properties or plots, not fake listings.
2. Conduct Due Diligence
Ensure the land has a C of O or government allocation. Engage a lawyer to confirm survey plans and check Oyo State land records.
3. Physically Inspect the Plot or Home
Visit with your surveyor. Know what you’re buying.
4. Sign and Register Title Documents
All transactions should involve a deed of assignment and receipt, and buyers should register for Governor’s Consent as required by law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kolapo Ishola Estate a government estate?
Yes. It is a GRA developed by the Oyo State government and allocated to individuals and developers under formal title structures.
Q: Can I build a house for shortlet rentals here?
Yes. Many homeowners run profitable shortlet businesses within the estate, especially during festive periods and weekends.
Q: Are there still available plots for sale?
Yes, but limited. Most plots are now sold on the secondary market, so prices vary. Some owners still offer direct sales.
Q: Can I use a mortgage?
Yes. Some commercial banks and primary mortgage institutions allow financing for homes and plots within Kolapo Ishola due to its documentation and resale value.
Final Verdict
Kolapo Ishola Estate is not hype. It’s one of the most structured, secure, and valuable estates in the city of Ibadan. Whether you’re buying to build your own home, to earn rental income, or to hold land for future resale, this estate offers long-term value and peace of mind.
It may not be cheap, but it offers what few estates in Ibadan can: real security, clear documentation, high rental yield, and a clean, livable environment. If you can afford it, it’s one of the smartest property decisions you can make in Ibadan today.
