Akure is a city in south-western Nigeria, and is the largest city and capital of Ondo State. The city had a population of 484,798 as at the 2006 population census.

History
Rock engravings dating back to the Mesolithic period, have been discovered on the outskirts of Akure. Also the oldest Homo sapiens fossil ever found in West Africa thus far was discovered there, dating back to around 11,000 years ago. Oral tradition states that Akure was founded by Omoremi Omoluabi, a grandson of the Emperor Oduduwa. The Prince left Ile-Ife, his grandfather's principal kingdom, in search of a place to settle after passing a strict test administered by Oduduwa himself, and eventually founded the city. The Oba's Palace is located at the centre of the town, and was built in 1150 AD. It has over 15 courtyards, with each having its unique purpose. Ua nla, Ua Ibura, Ua jemifohun, Ua Ikomo are some of the names of the courtyards. For example, in the Ua ubura courtyard, oaths are taken, and the ua Ikomo is used for naming ceremonies. At present, a bigger and more modern palace is being built to the south of the old palace's grounds. Oja Oba, which means the Oba's Market, is just a stone's throw away from the Palace.

Akure