By Oludayo Oludee Olorunfemi
A recent trip to Ekiti State by the campaign team of a presidential aspirant of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya (SAN), has provided a compelling lesson in leadership, vision and strategic planning ahead of two significant elections scheduled within a month of each other.
While the purpose of the journey was to facilitate consultations ahead of the NBA presidential election fixed for July 20, 2026, the visit unexpectedly highlighted the developmental strides being recorded in Ekiti State under Governor Biodun Oyebanji, particularly in the area of tourism.
The trip became necessary after logistical constraints made a direct flight from Lagos to Akure unsuitable for a series of engagements planned across Ondo State. The team instead opted to fly into Ekiti through the newly commissioned Ekiti Agro-Allied International Airport before proceeding by road to Akure.
Their first stop in Ado-Ekiti was a courtesy visit to legal icon and founder of Afe Babalola University, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN). During the visit, the elder statesman shared insights on leadership, governance, the legal profession and nation-building, reinforcing the importance of legacy and institution-building as measures of impactful leadership.
The delegation also visited the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism, where officials showcased the state’s tourism assets and unveiled details of the Ekiti State Tourism Development Master Plan (2025–2035). The presentation outlined strategies aimed at positioning Ekiti as a major tourism destination through infrastructure development, public-private partnerships, destination governance, cultural preservation and community empowerment.
Observers noted that the tourism blueprint reflects a deliberate effort to integrate policy, investment, culture and infrastructure into a sustainable economic framework capable of driving long-term growth and job creation.
A major highlight of the visit was a stop at the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort on the return journey from Ondo State. The team toured the world-renowned attraction, famous for its unique convergence of warm and cold springs flowing side by side.
According to members of the delegation, the serene environment, carefully maintained facilities and rich historical narratives surrounding the resort underscored the immense tourism potential available in the state.
Beyond Ikogosi, Ekiti boasts several natural and cultural attractions, including Arinta Waterfalls, Olosunta Hills, the Mount of Clouds and numerous cultural festivals that continue to attract visitors from within and outside Nigeria.
Analysts say the state’s growing investment in tourism reflects a broader governance philosophy focused on long-term development rather than short-term political gains.
The timing of the visit has drawn attention to the similarities between the Ekiti governorship election scheduled for June 20, 2026, and the NBA presidential election slated for July 20, 2026. In both contests, voters are expected to assess candidates based on their vision, track record and capacity to build sustainable institutions.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji has earned recognition for what many observers describe as a quiet but purposeful leadership style, with emphasis on infrastructure, agriculture, education and tourism development.
Similarly, Badejo-Okusanya’s NBA presidential aspiration has been driven by extensive consultations and advocacy for an inclusive, progressive and institution-focused Bar.
Supporters of both leaders argue that effective leadership should be measured by tangible achievements and enduring structures rather than campaign rhetoric.
For members of the delegation, the trip ended with a renewed appreciation of what strategic planning and purposeful governance can achieve. More importantly, it reinforced confidence in the future of Ekiti’s tourism industry and the state’s potential to emerge as one of Nigeria’s leading destination economies.
As Ekiti voters head to the polls on June 20 and lawyers across the country prepare for the NBA election a month later, the central question remains the same: whether to support those who merely speak about the future or those who are actively building it.
