In his frantic efforts to unluck the Oyo State tourism potential, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde lauded individuals who contributed to the tourism industry in the state and rewarded their efforts with different awards.
The Governor commended the awardees for their immense contributions to the state’s tourism potential, stating they are role models for others in the industry.
The awards were presented to the awardees at the first Oyo State International Tourism Summit (Dinner & Awards), held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.
Chairman Ilaji Hotel and Sports Resort, Engineer Dotun Sanusi, was awarded the Oyo State Tourism Person of the Year for his significant investments in sports infrastructure development and tourism promotion in Oyo State.
Sanusi, represented at the event by Alhaji Fatai Owoseni, has made a name for himself in Oyo State and beyond with his Ilaji Hotel and Sports Resort, which has become a hub for sports and tourism. The resort features top-notch facilities such as a stadium, swimming pool, gym, and hotel rooms. It has attracted visitors from across Nigeria and beyond, contributing to the development of tourism in Oyo State and generating revenue for the local economy.
Special Contributions to Oyo State Tourism Awards were given to Erelu Funmi Rotiba, Chief Executive Officer Special Tours Ltd (Woman in Tourism); Ufit fly (Travels and Tours); Dr Abebayo Faleke (Radio, TV or Online Show); Chief Tunde Odunlade (Arts, Culture and Creativity), and the organisers of the famous annual World Twins Festival, Ambassadors Taiwo and Kehinde Oguntoye (Cultural Event Ambassador).
Oyo State Emerging Tourist Site Award was given to Royal Entertainment Cruise, Eleyele, and Ibadan; Oyo Golden Tulip bagged Oyo State Tourism Facility of the Year Award; Iyake Suspended Lake got the Oyo State Tourism Destination of the Year Award, and Balogun Danjuma bagged the Oyo State Tourism Ambassador of the Year Award.
Governor Makinde, while congratulating Engr. Sanusi and others charged them to see the honour as a call for more work in making Oyo State a preferred tourism destination.
