Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Oyo State: Full List & Details

Oyo State, located in the southwestern region of Nigeria, is one of the most historically significant and economically vibrant states in the country. Known as the “Pace Setter State,” Oyo is deeply rooted in the ancient Yoruba civilization, with Ibadan, its capital, once being the largest city in West Africa.

The state plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s socio-economic and political landscape, offering a mix of urban sophistication, agricultural productivity, academic excellence, and cultural richness. It boasts a robust local government structure, comprising 33 Local Government Areas (LGAs), each strategically structured for administrative efficiency and grassroots development.

This article provides an in-depth guide to all the LGAs in Oyo State, including their headquarters, economic activities, and unique features.
 

Quick Overview of Oyo State

• Capital: Ibadan

• Date Created: February 3, 1976

• Slogan: Pace Setter State

• Region: South-West Nigeria

• Main Language: Yoruba

• Number of LGAs: 33

• Population Estimate: Over 8 million

• Main Economic Activities: Agriculture, education, trade, civil service, transportation

• Notable Institutions: University of Ibadan, Polytechnic Ibadan, Ladoke Akintola University

Full List of Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Oyo State

Here is a table showing the 33 LGAs in Oyo State along with their administrative headquarters:

Economic Activities & Key Features of LGAs in Oyo State

1. Afijio (Jobele)

• Known for large-scale farming of maize, yam, and cassava.

• Hosts several rural agribusinesses and cooperatives.

2. Akinyele (Moniya)

• A rapidly developing suburb of Ibadan.

• Features Akinyele Market and Moniya Railway Terminal.

3. Atiba (Ofa Meta)

• Cultural hub within Oyo town.

• Home to Alaafin's Palace, making it a center of Yoruba tradition.

4. Atisbo (Tede)

• Major agricultural zone with vast cassava and yam farmlands.

• Border community with strong local trade.

5. Egbeda (Egbeda)

• One of the commercial powerhouses in Ibadan.

• Hosts large markets and transport hubs.

6–10. Ibadan Urban LGAs

• Ibadan North, North-East, North-West, South-East, South-West

  • Hosts several tertiary institutions, including University of Ibadan.

  • Mix of government institutions, commercial centers, and historical sites.

11. Ibarapa Central (Igbo Ora)

• Known as the "twin capital of the world."

• Agriculture and traditional medicine thrive.

12. Ibarapa East (Eruwa)

• Heavily involved in food processing and export of cash crops.

13. Ibarapa North (Ayete)

• Strong in livestock rearing and cassava farming.

14. Ido (Ido)

• Agricultural belt with expanding real estate.

15. Irepo (Kisi)

• Major yam-producing area.

• Known for its vibrant cultural festivals.

16. Iseyin (Iseyin)

• Renowned for Adire fabric production.

• A leading LGA in cotton, tobacco, and maize farming.

17. Itesiwaju (Otu)

• Rich in arable lands; supports seasonal crop cultivation.

18. Iwajowa (Iwere Ile)

• A hilly region ideal for cocoa farming and hunting.

19. Kajola (Okeho)

• Central marketplace for the Oke-Ogun zone.

• Notable for craftsmanship and community development.

20. Lagelu (Iyana Offa)

• Bordering Ibadan, with both rural and suburban characteristics.

21. Ogbomoso North (Ogbomoso)

• Urban center with LAUTECH and commercial activities.

22. Ogbomoso South (Arowomole)

• Residential, academic, and hospitality services dominate.

23. Ogo Oluwa (Ajaawa)

• Strong in livestock and grain farming.

24. Olorunsogo (Igbeti)

• Hosts Olorunsogo Power Station.

• Known for marble deposit and mining.

25. Oluyole (Idi Ayunre)

• Industrial estates and agricultural processing centers.

26. Ona Ara (Akanran)

• Expanding urban area with rural agricultural settlements.

27. Orelope (Igboho)

• Popular for traditional herbal medicine.

• Diverse agricultural activities.

28. Ori Ire (Ikoyi Ile)

• Cocoa and yam production are key.

• Home to vibrant traditional leadership.

29. Oyo East (Kosobo)

• Shares heritage with the Alaafin Royal dynasty.

30. Oyo West (Ojongbodu)

• Key agricultural and trading zone.

31. Saki East (Ago-Amodu)

• Livestock and dairy farming dominate.

32. Saki West (Saki)

• Major town in Oke-Ogun; commercial and border trade hub.

33. Surulere (Iresa-Adu)

• Popular for pottery and art crafts.

• Hosts community festivals and agricultural fairs.

Importance of LGAs in Oyo’s Development

The 33 LGAs in Oyo State play key roles in the:

• ✅ Implementation of social and infrastructural policies

• ✅ Distribution of health, education, and welfare services

• ✅ Promotion of grassroots governance

• ✅ Creation of employment through agricultural programs

• ✅ Boosting internal revenue via local markets and taxation

FAQs About Local Government Areas in Oyo State

Q1: How many LGAs are there in Oyo State?
A: Oyo State has 33 Local Government Areas.

Q2: Which is the largest LGA in Oyo by land size?
A: Irepo and Saki West are among the largest by land mass.

Q3: What is the economic backbone of most LGAs in Oyo?
A: Agriculture—particularly yam, cassava, maize, and cocoa production.

Q4: What is the most urban LGA in Oyo State?
A: Ibadan North is one of the most urban and economically vibrant LGAs.

Q5: Are all LGAs in Ibadan urban?
A: No. While five LGAs serve the Ibadan metropolis, others like Lagelu and Akinyele have rural elements.

Q6: Which LGA is the seat of Yoruba royal heritage in Oyo?
A: Atiba LGA (Alaafin's Palace is in Oyo town).

Q7: Which LGA is known for Adire fabric?
A: Iseyin LGA is famous for Adire (tie and dye) production.

Q8: Which LGA hosts the University of Ibadan?
A: Ibadan North LGA.

Conclusion

Oyo State’s 33 LGAs represent a fine blend of Nigeria’s cultural heritage, economic potential, and grassroots governance. Each LGA contributes uniquely to the state’s identity, offering a mix of agriculture, urban development, education, and commerce.

Whether you're a researcher, policy analyst, business investor, or traveler, understanding the structure and functions of Oyo's LGAs provides valuable insights into the heartbeat of South-West Nigeria.