In a moment of profound recognition, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director-General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, was honoured with the prestigious Award of Excellence in Rural Tourism by Durian NG, an esteemed international NGO, during the “Rural is Cool Conference” held at The Dome in Akure, Ondo State.
This significant accolade was bestowed on Barrister Ojo-Lanre by Miss Tony Joy, promoter of Durian NG, who acknowledged the unwavering dedication and impactful contributions to the burgeoning field of rural tourism, particularly within Ekiti State.
The award ceremony, a highlight of the conference hosted by Durian NG, from its base in Imafon Village, Akure, underscored the growing importance of sustainable development in rural communities.
For Ojo-Lanre, it was a testament to years of tireless work aimed at spotlighting the untapped potential of Ekiti’s rural landscapes and cultural treasures.
The Transformative Power of Rural Tourism, a Vision Championed by Durian NG cannot be relegated to the background.
Durian NG, globally recognised for its commitment to empowering rural populations, specialises in training communities in the sustainable use of ecological resources and the ingenious art of “turning waste to wealth.” This philosophy perfectly aligns with the core advantages of rural tourism, a sector Ojo-Lanre has passionately championed.
Rural tourism breathes new life into often overlooked areas. Attracting visitors creates vital income streams for local entrepreneurs, artisans, guides, and hospitality providers. This diversification reduces reliance on traditional, sometimes volatile, livelihoods, building more robust and resilient local economies.
Rural Tourism helps preserve culture and heritage. As travellers increasingly seek authentic experiences, rural tourism incentivises communities to safeguard their unique traditions, crafts, folklore, and historical sites. This demand ensures that invaluable cultural assets are preserved, celebrated, and shared with the world, fostering a deep sense of local pride.
Tourism is also an agent of environmental stewardship, as communities directly benefit from their natural surroundings through tourism and become powerful advocates for environmental protection.
Durian’s emphasis on sustainable ecological practices ensures that tourism development enhances, rather than degrades, the local environment, promoting biodiversity and responsible resource management for future generations.
Rural tourism fosters self-reliance and skill development in community empowerment. It encourages skill development in guiding, hospitality, craftsmanship, and resource management. Durian’s training programmes, particularly in converting “waste to wealth,” equip locals with practical, marketable skills, fostering entrepreneurship and boosting community confidence.
Rural tourism also fosters authentic cultural exchange and understanding, offering a unique platform for genuine interaction between visitors and residents. This exchange bridges cultural divides, promotes mutual respect, and enriches the lives of everyone involved, creating memorable and meaningful experiences beyond typical tourist itineraries.
Ojo-Lanre’s efforts in Ekiti State Tourism
Wale Ojo-Lanre’s efforts in Ekiti State exemplify how these advantages can be harnessed to create thriving, sustainable rural destinations. His work, now officially recognised by Durian NG, inspires others seeking to unlock rural areas’ inherent beauty and economic potential, proving that “Rural is Cool.” This award is not just a personal honour but a beacon for the continued growth and positive impact of rural tourism across Nigeria and beyond.
