Welcome to Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Ikole Campus! I am Undergragra and I am here to educate and guide you.
If you’re reading this, congratulations on your admission. Whether you’re excited or nervous, I can promise you one thing: Ikole will become your home in no time. You’re probably still soaking in the new student vibes—smiling at your acceptance letter, checking out your course schedule, and most importantly, wondering where you’ll live or hang out. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
As a fresh student on Ikole campus, there are several places you’ll come to know like the back of your hand. Whether you’re an introvert or a social butterfly, these spots are integral to student life. Let’s take a tour through Ikole-Ekiti, specifically the areas that make this town a student’s haven. Spoiler: there’s a lot more to Ikole than just lectures and exams.
1. Secretariat
This is probably the first place you’ll hear about, even if you haven’t set foot in Ikole yet. The Ikole Local Government Secretariat is like the town’s heartbeat. Every Ikole student, no matter how “introverted” or “stay-at-home-ish” they claim to be, knows this place. Whether you’re coming by bike, car, or keke (tricycle), you can’t miss it.
The Secretariat isn’t exactly a buzzing student spot, but it’s iconic because almost everyone passes through here to get to campus. It’s not the kind of place you go to hang out, but it’s a point of reference for all things transportation.
You’ll soon find yourself saying, “Drop me at Secretariat” when you take a bike to school. It’s also one of those spots that helps you gauge how close or far you are from campus—if you see the Secretariat, just know you’re almost at school.
2. Garage
If Ikole were a movie set, Garage would be the bustling city square. It’s got everything: from historical landmarks to bustling businesses and eateries. The Ikole Palace, the central mosque, and the old (now defunct) First Bank building are all located here, making it a significant part of town.
The Garage also houses a park for passengers heading to major cities like Lagos, Ibadan, Ado-Ekiti, and other destinations. The area around the Garage is almost always busy—students running errands, locals doing their daily business, and passengers waiting for vehicles.
And let’s not forget Ike Kitchen—a popular student spot at Garage. This eatery is like a magnet for students who are hungry after classes or simply looking to hang out with friends. Don’t be surprised if you end up there frequently, whether you planned to or not.
Plus, the Ikole Market is just a few meters away. It’s the place to get fresh produce and everyday essentials, and trust me, it’s much bigger and better stocked than the Oye Market. So, if you’re looking for cheap and fresh ingredients, the Garage area is where to go.
3. Shell
The name Shell has a bit of mystery to it. Although it used to refer to a filling station near the second roundabout after Garage, many students still call the area “Shell” even though the station no longer carries that name. Why? No one really knows, but the name stuck, and it’s now one of the most recognized locations in Ikole.
Besides being a convenient spot to refuel your bike or buy snacks, Shell is also a gateway to places like Oye, Ado-Ekiti, and Akure. It’s almost like a secondary garage, specifically for those traveling shorter distances. Whether you’re commuting to a nearby town or just looking to pick up essentials, Shell is the go-to for many students.
4. Odi-Olowo
If convenience and proximity to campus are your top priorities, then Odi-Olowo is the place to be. This area is closer to school than even the Secretariat, making it one of the most sought-after locations for student housing. Don’t be shocked by the price tag, though—apartments here are often on the pricey side, but the convenience is worth it, especially for students who prefer to wake up late but still make it to class on time.
One of the most popular hostels in Odi-Olowo is Aditu Hostel. Known for its prime location and decent amenities, it’s one of those places you’ll either dream of staying in or hear stories about. Living in Odi-Olowo means you’re just a short walk from campus, which can be a blessing when you have early morning lectures.
5. Odo-Oro
Now, if you’re looking for a quieter and perhaps more private lifestyle, Odo-Oro is the place to consider. This area is quite far from campus—definitely not for the faint-hearted or those who hate long treks. However, it has its own charm. Odo-Oro is large enough to feel like a town on its own, and many students live here because the rent is generally cheaper compared to areas like Odi-Olowo.
Though it’s far, living in Odo-Oro gives you access to a tight-knit student community. You’ll meet fellow students and still enjoy some level of privacy, as the area is not as densely populated as others. It’s ideal for students who prefer a more “coded” (private) lifestyle. But, if you’re a fresh student, it might not be the best option because of the distance to campus.
6. Isaba
Isaba is arguably the most student-packed area in Ikole. It’s got everything you could possibly need: housing, food spots, and plenty of student energy. Isaba is located just a few meters from Shell and is always buzzing with life, especially at night. It’s like the student capital of Ikole.
Back in the day, Divine Chef was the go-to eatery in Isaba, but it recently closed and has now been refurbished into Oh La La Cafe, owned by a FUOYE alumnus. It’s quickly becoming a student favorite, drawing in crowds with its affordable meals and cool atmosphere. So, if you’re into late-night food runs or just want to hang out with friends, Isaba is the place for you.
7. Ikoyi
Though Ikoyi may not be the first place students think of, it’s quietly gaining popularity. It’s located a bit off the beaten path, but the bukateria (local eateries) in Ikoyi draw students in. If you’re looking for a change of scenery or just want to try out new places to eat, Ikoyi is worth exploring. It’s not the most crowded or loud place, so if you prefer quieter environments, this could be a good option.
8. Asin
Asin is another close-to-campus area, especially if you don’t mind walking. It’s not as high-end as Odi-Olowo, but it’s still quite popular. Students who can’t afford the steeper rent in Odi-Olowo often find affordable alternatives in Asin. The neighborhood vibe is a bit more laid-back, so if you’re someone who enjoys peace and quiet while still being close to school, Asin might be your perfect fit.
9. Ootunja
If you’re willing to live further out from the town center, Ootunja offers a calm, peaceful environment. It’s located almost at the outskirts of Ikole but is still a popular choice for students. Like Asin, the rent here is more affordable, and it’s just far enough from the hustle and bustle of Garage and Shell. Living here gives you a more suburban feel while still staying connected to the student community.
10. Ilotin
Ilotin is the hidden gem of Ikole, often overlooked by people zooming past on their way to more popular areas. Located close to the Secretariat and Garage, Ilotin is one of the most conveniently located areas in town. It’s near the market, so you’ll always have access to fresh food and essentials, and there’s even a shortcut from Ilotin to Odi-Olowo for students who want to save time commuting to campus.
Now that you’ve got the lay of the land, it’s time to start exploring Ikole for yourself! Wherever you choose to stay, one thing is certain: you’ll soon grow fond of these places, and they’ll become part of your FUOYE experience
❤️Undergragra
