The 2024 World Tourism Day celebration at the Oke Ewo War Memorial Site in Ilupeju, Ekiti State, was a resounding success, drawing dignitaries and cultural groups together under the theme “Tourism, Justice, and Peace.”
Among the notable attendees were the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, represented by Hon. Kareem Agunbiade (Member, Ekiti West Constituency 1); the Apeju of Ilupeju, Oba David Awe Akingbade; the Attorney General of Ekiti State, Dayo Apata SAN; Ekiti State Commissioner for Arts , Culture and Creative Economy, Prof Rasaki Ojo Bakare, Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Ekiti State, Comrade Joseph Falope and Mr Banji Ogungbemi, President, Ilupeju Development Association. Each delivered remarks aligned with the event’s theme, commending Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s peaceful initiatives as essential for enhancing the state’s tourism potential and fostering economic growth.
“We applaud Governor Oyebanji for his efforts in promoting peace and stability in Ekiti State. Peace is a precursor for tourism, and under his leadership, we have seen significant progress in both areas,” said Speaker Aribasoye.
The event attracted over 5,000 attendees and featured performances from 14 cultural groups, alongside 20 local culinary delights. The Apeju and Obanla of Ilupeju mesmerized the audience with a traditional pounding act.
Organized by the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development in collaboration with the Ilupeju Community, the event highlighted local commitment to tourism development. Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director-General of the Bureau, praised the community’s enthusiasm for enhancing the Oke Ewo War Memorial Site: “I commend the people of Ilupeju Ekiti for their exceptional commitment to developing this important tourism site.”
The Apeju of Ilupeju expressed gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for his leadership, stating, “He is a savior sent by God to guide Ekiti toward peace, progress, and development.” He assured the Governor of the community’s support for his initiatives.
The celebration also honored several cultural groups for their significant contributions to promoting Ekiti’s heritage. Awards were presented to notable individuals, including Rt. Hon. Adetunji Orisalade, former Deputy Speaker; Prof Owa, Chief Caleb Osasona, Chairman of the Society of Ekiti Creative Artists (SOECA); Ekiti State Performing Company, Chief Morakinyo Kayegbo, Elder Emmanuel Abejide, Midas Radio, Chief Femi Adaguodo, Mr Taiwo Arogunmati, Mr Olabamji Ojo (Ajabale), Mr Gbenga Sodeinde, recognizing their Inestimable contributions and vital roles played in developing Ekiti tourism.
“I am immensely proud of our tourism ambassadors who showcase the richness of Ekiti’s cultural heritage, our greatest asset,” said Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre.
Visitors to the Oke Ewo War Memorial Site marvelled at the historical significance of the area, where legends speak of humans and camels transformed into stones and trees, embodying the town’s rich cultural narrative.
The World Tourism Day celebration in Ilupeju underscored Ekiti State’s commitment to promoting tourism, fostering peace, and showcasing its unique cultural diversity.
