In a moment of profound recognition, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director-General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development was honored with the prestigious Award of Excellence in Rural Tourism by Durian NG an esteemed international NGO, during the “Rural is Cool Conference” held at The Dome in Akure, Ondo State.
This significant accolade bestowed on Barrister Ojo-Lanre by Miss Tony Joy , promoter Durian NG acknowledged the unwavering dedication and impactful contributions to the burgeoning field of rural tourism, particularly within Ekiti State.
The award ceremony, a highlight of the conference hosted by Durian NG ,from its base in Imafon Village, Akure, underscored the growing importance of sustainable development in rural communities.
For Ojo-Lanre, it was a testament to years of tireless work aimed at spotlighting the untapped potential of Ekiti’s rural landscapes and cultural treasures.
The Transformative Power of Rural Tourism a Vision Championed by Durian NG cannot be relegated into the background
Durian NG, globally recognized for its commitment to empowering rural populations, specializes in training communities in the sustainable use of ecological resources and the ingenious art of “turning waste to wealth.” This philosophy perfectly aligns with the core advantages of rural tourism, a sector Ojo-Lanre has passionately championed
For rural tourism breathes new life into often-overlooked areas. By attracting visitors, it creates vital income streams for local entrepreneurs, artisans, guides, and hospitality providers. This diversification reduces reliance on traditional, sometimes volatile, livelihoods, building more robust and resilient local economies.
Rural Tourism helps in preservation of Culture and Heritage as travelers increasingly seek authentic experiences, rural tourism incentivizes communities to safeguard their unique traditions, crafts, folklore, and historical sites. This demand ensures that invaluable cultural assets are not just preserved, but celebrated and shared with the world, fostering a deep sense of local pride.
It is also an agent of environmental stewardship as communities directly benefit from their natural surroundings through tourism, they become powerful advocates for environmental protection.
Durian’s emphasis on sustainable ecological practices ensures that tourism development enhances, rather than degrades, the local environment, promoting biodiversity and responsible resource management for future generations.
In the area of Community Empowerment and Skill Development , rural tourism fosters self-reliance. It encourages skill development in areas like guiding, hospitality, craftsmanship, and resource management. Durian’s training programs, particularly in converting “waste to wealth,” equip locals with practical, marketable skills, fostering entrepreneurship and boosting community confidence.
It also fosters authentic cultural exchange and understanding for Rural Tourism offers a unique platform for genuine interaction between visitors and residents. This exchange bridges cultural divides, promotes mutual respect, and enriches the lives of everyone involved, creating memorable and meaningful experiences beyond typical tourist itineraries.
Ojo-Lanre’s efforts in Ekiti State Tourism
Wale Ojo-Lanre’s efforts in Ekiti State exemplify how these advantages can be harnessed to create thriving, sustainable rural destinations. His work, now officially recognized by Durian NG , serves as an inspiration for others seeking to unlock the inherent beauty and economic potential of rural areas, proving that indeed, “Rural is Cool.” This award is not just a personal honor, but a beacon for the continued growth and positive impact of rural tourism across Nigeria and beyond.
