The Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, led by Director-General Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, has officially unveiled the sponsors and partners for the highly anticipated 2025 edition of Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari, tagged “Hike and Dine in the Clouds.” This signature event is scheduled for Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the awe-inspiring Mount of Clouds, the highest peak in Ekiti State, located in Efon-Alaaye.
Addressing a press conference, Barrister Ojo-Lanre described this year’s edition as more than a tourism event—it is a celebration of rebirth, reflection, and rejuvenation, mirroring the spiritual essence of Easter. He explained that the experience of hiking through the misty terrain of Mount of Clouds will be both physically invigorating and spiritually uplifting, symbolizing the spirit of resurrection and renewal.
He praised the unwavering support of His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, whose visionary leadership and investment in the Efon–Ipole–Ikogosi–Ilawe tourism corridor have brought this initiative to life. Ojo-Lanre noted that the Governor’s commitment to using tourism as a tool for grassroots development has inspired and energized the Bureau’s efforts.
With over 2,000 hikers expected, local hotels in Efon-Alaaye are offering 20% discounts to accommodate visitors. The event is projected to generate more than ₦50 million in economic activity, positively impacting transportation, hospitality, artisans, and food vendors across the region.
Cultural entertainment will also take center stage, featuring legendary Ekiti artists such as Goroso Ekiti, Omo Eli, Ekiti Boys, Eyeloburin, Funmi Elemure, Veteran Ogidi Olu Alaro, and Bola Oselusi. Attendees will enjoy a symbolic Easter feast featuring Ekuru Àpọn, a sacred traditional delicacy exclusive to Efon-Alaaye.
Highlighting the broader relevance of Mount of Clouds, Ojo-Lanre mentioned the largest pineapple plantation in South-West Nigeria, located on the mountain and operated by Mr. Oluwaleto, who employs over 50 workers daily. This, he noted, underscores the site’s value not just as a tourism destination, but as a hub for agro-ecotourism and economic empowerment.
The event will attract dignitaries from the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), and NIHOTOUR, whose collaboration with Ekiti State continues to bolster Nigeria’s tourism profile.
The press conference also acknowledged prominent individuals and organizations donating awards to be presented during the event. Among them are Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Hon. Bimbo Daramola, Hon. Dapo Kolawole, and Dr. Osetoba.
Sponsors and Partners Unveiled:
- Adron Homes – known for commitment to real estate development and urban renewal
- Voki – a premium lifestyle and fashion-forward brand
- Sterling Bank – a financial institution championing creative innovation
- Fure Bio Water – Ekiti-based pioneers in potable water solutions
- Rites Foods – providing nourishment and energy for adventurers
- Guinea Wood Factory, Efon-Alaaye – symbol of local enterprise
- Dan Pharmacy – promoting community health and wellness
- Olu Olu Food Company – advancing indigenous food innovation
- BATOIL – supporting tourism through social investment
- Okiky Investments, Eflaye International, The Tusk Hotel (Abuja) – under the dynamic Ajiroba Brand
- Ayomarc Hotel , Table Water & Event Centre
Ojo-Lanre declared, “Together, we are scripting a new chapter for tourism in Ekiti—one where the clouds are not just admired from afar, but conquered, celebrated, and savored.”
He concluded with a rallying call: “Let us hike. Let us dine. Let us elevate Ekiti.”
Adding his voice, Prince Rotimi Awelewa, Consultant for the event, lauded the Alaaye-in-Council and the people of Efon-Alaaye for their unwavering support in making the event a reality.
Also speaking, Mr. Adebiyi Ayotunde, Director of Sales and Marketing at Adron Homes, praised Governor Oyebanji for his bold strides in tourism, calling him “a purposeful man of vision turning Ekiti into a preferred destination.” He announced that Adron Homes would be fully on ground and revealed a special incentive:
“For Hike and Dine in the Clouds, we are offering a 40% discount on all our real estate offers. Everyone who attends will leave with something special. We want to make land ownership accessible to all.”
Mr. Femi Afolabi Asorogbayi, representing the Alaaye of Efon-Alaaye, Oba (Prof.) Emmanuel Adesanya Aladejare, assured participants of a warm and memorable reception, stating that “Efon is ready to host the world.”
In closing, Barrister Babasoji Awe, General Manager of the Bureau, appreciated the media for its strategic partnership and continued support of the Bureau’s tourism agenda.
