The Guild of Tourism Journalists in Nigeria (GTJN) has applauded the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for his determination to restore and uplift the sector in Ekiti State and enhance Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort, Ikogosi Ekiti, back to global excellence and international reckoning.
In a release made available to NANS in Ibadan and signed by Remi Oladoye, the Association’s secretary, “We members of this Association are proud of your tourism initiatives, policy, and determination to develop the tourism sector not only by word of mouth but by deeds.
Mr Oladoye revealed, ‘We are glad that Governor Biodun Oyebanji has made tourism development the sixth sectoral policy of his government. This is cheering and hope-laden news for tourism practitioners in the state and the numerous tourism sites in Ekiti State.
The Guild of Tourism Journalists in Nigeria is the only tourism association in Nigeria that has an unmitigated interest in the development of the tourism sector in Ekiti State in particular and in Nigeria in general.
He revealed that ‘ I must bring to the memory the part played by this association during the pre and post-restoration of Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort, Ikogosi Ekiti, in 2012 under the first tenure of Dr Kayode Fayemi, when the Association mobilized its members in highlighting in sequential order, the restoration, inauguration and post-inauguration of the rehabilitated Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort and we never kept our mouth shut when the Resort was abused and neglected.
The Association pointed out that ‘ Hence, we are glad that Governor Oyebanji is not only making politics out of his tourism policy but has taken the first step of conviction by concessioning Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort to a world-class company, which will turn Ikogosi into an eldorado of heavenly bliss and wonderful destination once again.’
The Association pointed out that Ekiti is a paragon of numerous tourism potentialities that are only waiting to be tapped and cultivated for empowerment, employment, revenue generation, and development.
The Association assured Governor Oyebanji, ‘We are ready to form a synergy of purpose with your government as part of our development journalism ethos. You have displayed a robust sense of tourism-friendly posture. Consider us your partner in the progress and advancement of tourism in Ekiti State.
