In furtherance of the tourism vision of the Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development has established a dedicated Tourist Information Desk to assist visitors coming to the state for the Ekiti Festival of Arts and Culture, Ekifest 2026.
The upcoming Ado-Ekiti cultural festival, scheduled to be held from August 11 to 15, 2026, will bring together cultural performers, artists, tourists, creative entrepreneurs, hospitality operators and other stakeholders from within and outside Ekiti State.
Officials intend the newly created desk to streamline the complete travel experience for every attendee. The Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq., said the establishment of the Tourist Information Desk had become necessary to provide visitors with accurate, timely and practical information throughout the festival.
According to him, the desk will assist tourists with information on accommodation, transportation, travel arrangements, tour operators, festival venues, Ekiti tourism attractions and other services required for a comfortable and rewarding stay in Ekiti State.
Why Ekifest 2026 Drives State Economic Growth
Ojo-Lanre explained that the festival should not be viewed merely as a cultural festival restricted to performances, exhibitions and competitions, but as a major tourism product capable of stimulating economic activities across several sectors.
“EKIFEST is beyond a cultural festival. It is a tourism product, a destination-marketing platform and an economic opportunity for Ekiti State,” he said.
“When visitors travel to Ekiti for the festival, they patronise hotels, restaurants, transport operators, tour guides, photographers, craftspeople, food vendors and other service providers. Their movement activates a chain of economic activities and strengthens the tourism and hospitality sectors.”
The Director-General added that the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development had held engagements with travel agencies, tour operators, hoteliers, tourism associations and relevant national organisations as part of efforts to promote the grand gathering and attract visitors to the state.
Exploring Key Ekiti Tourism Attractions Beyond the Stage
He encouraged visitors attending the Ado-Ekiti cultural festival to extend their stay beyond the cultural arena by exploring major Ekiti tourism attractions across the state, including Ikogosi Warm Springs, Arinta Waterfalls, Ugele Rock Shelter, Oke Sagbonke, Abanijorin Rock and other natural, historical and cultural destinations.
The Tourist Information Desk will also provide information on available tourism packages, routes to attractions, accommodation facilities, hospitality services, community festivals and opportunities within the state’s growing tourism economy.
Mr Olaoluwa Jinadu, Director of Tourism, alongside designated officers of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, will coordinate the desk throughout the duration of the event.
Residents, tourists, travel professionals, investors, families, students, journalists, photographers and lovers of culture are invited to visit Ekiti, experience Ekifest 2026 and participate in the tourism economy of the festival.
Come for the culture. Stay for the hospitality. Explore the attractions. Experience Ekiti.
For tourism information, inquiries, and assistance, please contact:
- Olaoluwa: +234 803 970 0797
- Kenny: +234 705 255 1806
- Adebobola: +234 814 766 8993
