The remarkable strides recorded by the Ekiti State Government in tourism development under the visionary leadership of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji have received national recognition.
Stakeholders at the National Hospitality and Tourism Stakeholders Forum, organised by the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), spotlighted the state as a compelling model for policy-driven growth in Nigeria’s tourism sector.
Shaping the Future of the Sector
The high-level forum, convened under the theme “Shaping the Future of Nigerian Tourism Together,” brought together key actors from both the public and private sectors. They met to interrogate pathways for sustainable tourism development in the country.
A major highlight of the gathering was a thought-provoking panel session titled “Tourism Investment & Infrastructure Development.” This session focused on “Financing Nigeria’s Tourism Sector: Mobilizing Public and Private Investment for Infrastructure and Sustainable Growth.”
A Galaxy of Industry Leaders
Moderated by the astute industry leader, Susan Akporiaye, MD/CEO of Topaz Travel and Tours, the session assembled respected voices in the investment ecosystem. Panelists included:
- Mr Lanre Balogun: General Manager of Glocient Hospitality.
- Ms Abiola Adelana: Head of Tourism Business at Sterling Bank.
- Mr Akinsola Akeredolu-Ale: MD/CEO of Lagos Commodities & Futures Exchange.
- Hon. Muhammad Muktar Olowookere: Chairman, House Committee on Tourism.
The Ikogosi Transformation
In his intervention, Balogun attributed the remarkable transformation of Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort to deliberate government policies. He noted that the enabling environment created by the Oyebanji administration has repositioned the iconic resort as one of Nigeria’s foremost leisure and wellness destinations.
“The Ekiti example underscores the power of strategic public-private collaboration in unlocking tourism value chains,” Balogun stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Ms Adelana commended the Ekiti tourism policy for its forward-looking approach. She described it as a benchmark worthy of emulation by other states. She emphasised that the state’s clarity of vision reflects the political will required to transform tourism into a viable economic pillar.
Branding and Global Competitiveness
Ekiti State’s participation was led by Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development. His presence reinforced the state’s growing influence in national discourse.
Dr Ola Awakan, Director General of the NTDA, provided the national platform for this critical engagement.
In a notable moment, the moderator acknowledged the increasing visibility of the “Visit Ekiti” brand. She highlighted the Director General’s signature branded cap as a creative tool that has amplified the state’s identity.
Stakeholders unanimously noted that the Ekiti experience stands out. It demonstrates how coherent frameworks and Nigeria tourism investment strategies converge to deliver measurable progress.
