Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Debo Ogundoyin has disclosed the readiness of the legislative arm of the government to give necessary legislative support that will enhance the promotion and development and tourism in the state.
Hon. Ogundoyin disclosed this while receiving Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Culture and Tourism, Hon Akeem Ademola Ige in his office on Tuesday.
The Speaker, who frowned at the state of facilities and infrastructure at heritage sites in Oyo State, said that the state Assembly is already working on a Tourism Bill that will change the status quo.
He said: “Oyo State is blessed with a lot of tourism potentials and heritage sites, which are supposed to be generating a good income to the state but it is a pity that most of them are not in a good shape. As lawmakers, we are taking a step that will enhance the development of the sector.
“We are reaching out to all stakeholders in the sector to have detailed and comprehensive information and come out will robust legislation that will make the sector grow.”
Special Adviser to the governor on Tourism, Hon Akeem Ademola Ige in his remark said Governor Makinde is interested in Making Oyo State a preferred tourism destination in Nigeria, adding that the Governor is ready to give all it takes to achieve that.
“Part of the step taken so far is to place an advert in the newspapers to get interested investors on any of the sites; we are already getting positive responses. Very soon, work will start on some of the tourist sites in the state,” Hon Ige said.
He added: “I have been to some of the sites and also met with stakeholders in the industry. From all indications, there is greater hope for the tourism sector in Oyo State. I consider meeting you, the Hon. Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, very important because of the need for legislative backing and support. I am happy for the assurances you have given us.”
