The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has charged key stakeholders in the state’s investment and tourism sectors to develop a comprehensive blueprint for transforming the Mount of Clouds, Oke Sagbonke, into a thriving economic and tourism hub.
Governor Oyebanji gave the directive during his address at the 7th Edition of Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari, themed “Hike and Dine in the Clouds,” held at the breathtaking Oke Sagbonke in Efon Alaaye on Monday, April 21, 2025. The Discover Ekiti Tourism Club organised the event in strategic collaboration with the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development.
The Governor specifically tasked the Commissioner for Investment, Trade and Industry, Mrs. Adeola Omotayo; the Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre; and the Director General of the Ekiti State Development and Promotion Agency, Mrs. Lolade Ronke Olutola, to immediately commence the formulation of a workable development plan that will harness the vast economic potential of the area.
Visibly moved by the awe-inspiring landscape of the Mount of Clouds and impressed by the extensive pineapple plantations—the largest in the Southwest—nestled within the mountain’s terrain, Governor Oyebanji emphasised the urgent need to shift the paradigm and unlock the area’s tourist and agricultural value for sustainable development.
“The scenery is not only picturesque but also economically promising. We cannot continue to let this goldmine remain untapped. We must now evolve a strategic plan that will turn Oke Sagbonke into a vibrant economic environment,” the Governor stated.
He commended the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development for its proactive approach in enhancing and promoting the state’s tourism potential. He specifically praised the Director General, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, and his team for their dedication in rebranding and christening tourism sites across the state.
Governor Oyebanji further noted his satisfaction with the successful packaging of the Hike and Dine in the Clouds event, acknowledging its potential to position Ekiti as a premier ecotourism destination in Nigeria.
