The Director-General of the Bureau of Tourism Development in Ekiti State, Amb Wale Ojo-Lanre, has commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for visiting the derelict house of the Ekiti-born world’s best carver, Olowe of Ise, in Ise, Ekiti, yesterday.
During the visit, Governor Oyebanji expressed his commitment to transforming the house into a museum and tourism centre to showcase the rich, awesome works of art of the late iconic carver.
Governor Oyebanji, who was accompanied by Senator Babafemi Ojudu; President Olowe of Ise Art Foundation, Mr Akin Oyebode; Commissioner of Finance Ekiti State, Prince Tunde Odunlade; Promoter Tunde Odunlade Gallery of Arts Conezions, Ibadan; and Amb Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director General, The Bureau of Tourism Development, Ekiti-State, visited the palace of the Oba of Ise, His Royal Majesty Oba Adetunji Ajayi, who prayed for the Governor and the success of his vision for Ise on the Olowe of Ise Museum before proceeding to the Olowe of Ise House.
Amb Ojo-Lanre applauded Governor Oyebanji’s visionary approach to tourism development in Ekiti State.
He said: “By recognising the significance of the works of Olowe of Ise and his decision to turn the derelict house of the late world’s renowned carver whose works of art dominated museums all over Europe, the Governor has taken a significant step towards preserving the image and legacy of Olowe of Ise, showcasing Ekiti arts and cultural heritage, and promoting tourism in the state.”
Amb Ojo-Lanre pointed out that the late Olowe of Ise is renowned globally for its exceptional woodcarvings, which have garnered international acclaim. Transforming his historic house into a museum and tourism centre would attract tourists worldwide and allow local artisans to showcase their talent and contribute to the state’s economic growth.
Amb Ojo-Lanre believes that this initiative will not only boost the tourism sector but also turn Ise Ekiti into an art hub, and create employment opportunities for the people of Ekiti State.
He fully supported Governor Oyebanji’s efforts to transform the House of Olowe of Ise into a museum and tourism centre.
He assured the Governor that the Bureau will work tirelessly to ensure the successful implementation of this project, collaborating with relevant stakeholders to make it a reality.
Amb Ojo-Lanre also called on the people of Ekiti State to embrace and support this initiative and the governor’s other tourism visions.
He said, “I enjoin all of us in the state not only to support Governor Oyebanji in all his programs but also to pray for his success at transforming Ekiti State into an irresistible tourism destination.
