Governor Seyi Makinde has officially inaugurated the committees for the landmark Oyo State Tourism Master Plan and the International Tourism Summit 2026, asserting that the state possesses the “valuable assets” required to attract global investors.
Speaking at the Executive Council Chamber in Agodi, Ibadan, the Governor formalised the roadmap to ensure the region remains a top destination for those seeking sustainable Oyo State investment opportunities.
The Governor formalised a 9-member committee for the long-term master plan and an 8-member organising team for the upcoming summit. He noted that his administration remains committed to building the systems and structures necessary to encourage sustainable investment across the state.
Governor Makinde emphasised that tourism thrives only where there is “structure, hospitality, clarity of purpose and continuity.”
A 25-Year Vision for the Oyo State Tourism Master Plan
The Governor tasked the committees to look far beyond the current political term. He stressed that the Oyo State Tourism Master Plan is designed to provide a reliable roadmap for subsequent administrations, ensuring that policy, capital, and execution remain aligned.
“Today is about setting in motion a system that will shape how Oyo State competes, attracts investments and creates opportunities over the next 25 years,” Makinde stated.
“It is not just about what we do in the immediate setting, it is how we put in systems that can give confidence around the world. When we decided to expand our airport to international standard and have international flights coming direct, it is because we dare to be different.”
Putting Oyo on the Global Map via the International Tourism Summit 2026
The Governor highlighted several key landmarks—including Oke Iya-Mapo in Igbeti, Igbo Ora, and the Ikere Gorge Dam—as world-class assets. His goal is to ensure that international travellers can fly directly into the state capital with full confidence in the local infrastructure.
He further explained:
“We want a situation where even if you can’t come to Nigeria, Oyo State will be on the tourism map and they can say, ‘Yes, I want to visit so, so, so, and so places in Oyo State, and we can fly directly to the state capital.’ So, what this committee is supposed to do is to show us the direction where our state can compete, attract investments, and create opportunities over the next 25 years.”
Collaboration and Oyo State Investment Opportunities
Recognising that the government cannot drive growth in isolation, the Governor called for active private-sector participation to maximise Oyo State investment opportunities. Regarding the International Tourism Summit 2026, he noted that the organising committee has been active since 2024 and has already delivered two successful events.
“This year will be the third and we will have the experience from what we have done before,” Makinde added. “I sincerely hope that this year will be grand, because Oyo State has come of age. At 50, we have showcased to the entire world that we have indeed come of age. So, this will be the icing on that cake, and we will give you all the support.”
The committees include prominent figures such as Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun (Commissioner for Culture and Tourism), Mr Tilewa Folami (DG, OYSIPA), and various academic and industry experts from the University of Ibadan and the Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN).
