Ekiti State reaffirmed its place as one of Nigeria’s rising tourism destinations with an impressive showcase at the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market in Lagos.
The highlight of the event was the recognition of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who received an award for his commitment to advancing tourism development.
The Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Mr. Wale Ojo-Lanre, described Akwaaba as the premier marketplace for travel, tourism, and hospitality in West Africa.
He emphasized that the expo provides a unique opportunity for states and countries to connect with investors and visitors.
“Akwaaba has become the most valuable platform where you can buy, sell, network, and promote tourism. If you are not here, then where will you sell your product?” Ojo-Lanre asked, underscoring the importance of participation in the annual event.Ojo-Lanre explained that Ekiti’s involvement goes beyond exhibition.
He noted that last year’s presence at the expo successfully attracted investors and tourists who later explored Ekiti’s attractions, creating ripple effects in the local economy.
He credited Governor Oyebanji’s leadership for the state’s renewed momentum, highlighting the governor’s decision to separate tourism from arts and culture by creating a dedicated bureau.
This move, he said, has given the sector autonomy and a clearer policy direction.
A major milestone under Oyebanji’s administration, Ojo-Lanre revealed, was Ekiti’s historic partnership with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to develop a Tourism Master Plan and Policy Framework.
The collaboration marked the first time the UN agency partnered directly with a Nigerian state.
“For the first time in Nigeria’s history, UNWTO partnered directly with a state to design a tourism policy. That’s the kind of forward-thinking leadership we have in Ekiti,” he said, stressing the uniqueness of the achievement.
At this year’s Akwaaba, Ekiti unveiled a fresh focus—medical tourism. The state showcased the advanced facilities of the Afe Babalola University Teaching Hospital (ABUAD), which Ojo-Lanre described as one of the best-equipped health institutions in the region.
Beyond medical tourism, Ekiti promoted its cultural and natural attractions, including the famous palm tree with 42 heads, its identity as the birthplace of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), and its significance as a hub of traditional Ifa heritage.
The recognition presented to Governor Oyebanji was widely viewed as validation of Ekiti’s tourism strategy.
It also positioned the state as an emerging destination to watch on Africa’s tourism map, with stronger prospects for investment, cultural exchange, and community empowerment
Reporting by Chioma Ezike