By Bolanle Faokunla
The Ekiti state Bureau of tourism development in its bid to establish a strong, viable and dynamic tourism sector has engaged stakeholders in the state to adopt sustainable strategies and actionable frameworks that is aimed at projecting Ekiti as a leading tourism figure in Nigeria.
The Director general of the Bureau, Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre during an interactive session held at the Lady Jibowu hall in Ado Ekiti said the tourism sector is determined to establish a partnership with communities through a policy that will foster economic growth in the state.
Ambassador Ojo-Lanre was of the opinion that if the custodians of the tourist sites in the state can collaborate with the state tourism board it will no doubt boost the revenue of the state as well put Ekiti on the world map that will attract investors through tourism.
” Tourism, as we know, is one of the world’s most dynamic and resilient sectors. It is an industry that transcends borders celebrates cultural diversity and fosters economic growth through job creation”
The DG maintained that the groundwork for the policy will align with the peoples vision, reflect unique values , harness local strengths and also create a pathway to economic diversification.
He explained that part of the agenda of Governor Abayomi Oyebanji is to enable community empowerement and local participation.
” Today we have called on all stakeholders, our traditional rulers, chiefs, security, Non governmental organisations who are all here today to make input into the policy by making suggestions, ideas and even solutions to some of the challenges that tourism is facing in Ekiti” he therefore encourages a collaborative process that is inclusive, comprehensive and actionable.
The Consultant of the project, Overseas Credit and Private Equity Limited Opeyemi Sanni outlined the policies and executions while presenting the mediums that will help facilitate the project.
He highlighted transportation, security, tour guides, accessible roads amongst other factors that should receive urgent attention.
Responding during the interactive session, the traditioner rulers, Oba Onire of Ire Ekiti and Oluyin of Iyin Ekiti eulogised the Governor of Ekiti state Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for investing in tourism while assuring the tourism board of their support in ensuring tourism is monetised in Ekiti state.
Other stakeholders who attended the event include representatives from Museum owners, Hoteliers assocuation, Travel Agencies,Teaching service commission, Immigration services, Internal revenue and the Department of State Security services DSS.
Others are FRSC, NSCDC, Ministry of Health,Ministry of Education and the representative of the Nigeria Tourism development Authority office Abuja.
