By Dolapo Adewumi and Ajibola Mariam
In a significant move to enhance tourism in Ekiti State, the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, welcomed a high-profile delegation from the United Nations (UN) Tourism Office.
The visit, led by Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, and accompanied by key officials from the Bureau, underscored the state’s commitment to positioning itself as a leading tourism destination in Nigeria.
The delegation included Mr. Marcel Leijzer, Mr. Precious Ovahabonosa, and Mr. Dike Okemini, who were introduced to the Governor by the Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Yinka Oyebode.
During the meeting, Ambassador Ojo-Lanre highlighted the Governor’s strong commitment to tourism, noting his insistence on developing a comprehensive tourism master plan as a foundation for sustainable tourism growth in the state.
“The Governor’s passion for tourism is evident,” Ojo-Lanre remarked, “He believes in laying a solid foundation with a first-class master plan before embarking on any development initiatives. This is a crucial step in ensuring that tourism in Ekiti is not just developed but is sustainable and impactful.”
The Governor’s previous efforts in promoting tourism, such as his participation in a hike on the Abanijorin Mountain, were also mentioned as a testament to his hands-on approach. The Director General informed the Governor of several exploratory tours that have been undertaken to identify and develop key tourism sites in the state.
Mr. Precious Ovahabonosa, speaking on behalf of the UN delegation, expressed his pleasure at meeting Governor Oyebanji. “Having been in the tourism industry for two decades, I know the challenges and opportunities that exist. It’s heartening to see that Ekiti State is taking bold steps towards becoming a leader in tourism development in Nigeria,” he said.
He further emphasized that the development of tourism sites in Ekiti would not only boost the state’s economy but also create employment opportunities for its citizens.
Governor Oyebanji, in his response, expressed his gratitude for the visit and reiterated the state’s rich tourism potential, which, he noted, has been underutilized for far too long.
He assured the delegation of his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the sector, stating, “Ekiti is blessed with numerous tourism attractions, and we are determined to bring them to global recognition. We are not just selling tourism; we are selling knowledge to the world.”
The Governor also announced plans to introduce tourism into the school curriculum, a move aimed at fostering a culture of tourism appreciation and awareness from a young age.
He revealed that the development of the Abanijorin Mountain site would commence soon, with the goal of completing it before the next hiking event.
Additionally, he confirmed that the long-awaited commissioning of the Ekiti State Airport would take place before the end of the year.
To conclude the visit, Governor Oyebanji presented the UN delegates with a plaque featuring the Ekiti State logo as a token of appreciation. The meeting ended with a group photograph, symbolizing the beginning of what promises to be a fruitful collaboration between Ekiti State and the United Nations in the realm of tourism development.
This visit marks a pivotal moment in Ekiti State’s journey towards becoming a top tourism destination, with the Governor’s administration demonstrating a clear vision and strong resolve to harness the state’s tourism potential for economic growth and cultural preservation.
