Ikirun, town in southwestern Nigeria, in Osun State. Ikirun's economy is based on agriculture, crafts, and trade. Food crops include yams, cassava, maize, peanuts, pumpkins, beans, and okra. Livestock includes dwarf cattle, goats, sheep, and poultry. Ikirun is both a trading center for food crops as well as a collection point for cash crops such as cotton and tobacco. Grinding stones (stones used for grinding maize, beans, peas, and soup condiments) are also sold here. Ikirun is also a center for weaving, leather work, and pottery. The town is on the rail line extending northward from Lagos and is connected to Oshogbo, Offa, and other cities by highway.
Ikirun was founded by Yoruba warriors from the city of Ibadan as a base for military advances against the settlements of their enemies, such as the city of Ilorin. During the 19th century Fulani warriors from Ilorin raided Ikirun to acquire slaves. Today, most of the people of Ikirun are Yoruba. Population (1995) 177,000.
