The Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, has secured a high-profile endorsement for the “Visit Ekiti” campaign following a strategic courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja.
The meeting, held at the Arigidi Close palace in Bodija, Ibadan, serves as a significant bridge for interstate cultural collaboration within South-West Nigeria. Ojo-Lanre used the platform to market Ekiti’s crown jewels, including the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and the Ipole-Iloro Waterfall.
A Tribute to Integrity and Loyalty
During the visit, Ojo-Lanre congratulated the monarch on his ascension to the throne, describing him as a man of “unimpeachable integrity, tenacity of purpose, and uncommon commitment to fairness, equity, and justice.”
The Director-General shared an emotionally resonant tribute, highlighting his long-standing personal bond with the Olubadan. Reflecting on his tenure as Chairman of the Oyo State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), he noted:
“I can never forget Kabiyesi’s unwavering support during my tenure as NUJ Chairman in Oyo State. He was there then, and he has remained there for me till today. Such loyalty and fatherly guidance cannot be repaid but must be honoured. I will never forsake the Ladoja family.”
Marketing the ‘Rock of Wonders’
Beyond personal tributes, the discussion turned toward the economic and cultural potential of Ekiti’s natural assets. Ojo-Lanre robustly promoted the mystic Abanijorin Rock of Wonders in Iyin Ekiti and the revitalised Ikogosi resort.
The Olubadan showed particular interest in the heritage of the region, making specific inquiries about the availability of the famous Gossy Water. Impressed by the presentation, the monarch expressed a firm desire to experience the sites personally.
“I will come and see these wonders myself,” the Olubadan assured.
“Ibadan by Spirit, Ekiti by Birth”
In a gesture of public validation, Oba Ladoja introduced Ojo-Lanre to the Bodija Residents Association Executive as a “trusted friend and son.” The monarch praised the DG’s work in repositioning Ekiti as a premier destination under the vision of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.
“Wale Ojo-Lanre is Ibadan by spirit and Ekiti by birth. He belongs to all of us,” Kabiyesi declared.
The visit concludes a week of heightened activity for the Visit Ekiti initiative, which continues to leverage traditional institutions to drive sustainable tourism development across the region.
