He made this statement during the 7th edition of Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari at Sagbonke Mountain in Efon Alaaye Ekiti.
The Governor emphasized the importance of tourism as a vital sector of the economy, highlighting its potential to significantly enhance the state’s revenue base.
He expressed his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the renovation and modernization of tourism sites to attract both local and international visitors.
“I thank God for all the endowment he has blessed us with. The last speaker said this place was discovered four years ago and I keep asking myself what have we been doing with our endowment. God has given us what can fetch us money. I was talking to the Commissioner for Investment that how do we turn these assets around, this is a massive asset for Ekiti State, and Efon people are noted for self-development, and I am throwing this challenge back to you, this asset should not be wasted, Let us sit down and collaborate with government and find a way of developing this place.”
Governor Oyebanji directed the Commissioner for Industry, Trade, Investment and Cooperatives, Commissioner for Arts and Culture, and the Director-General of the Bureau of Tourism Development to develop a comprehensive investment plan for Sagbonke Mountain. He described the location as a hidden treasure with immense potential to attract global attention.
The Governor also urged stakeholders, including investors and cultural custodians, to collaborate with his government to achieve the vision of making Ekiti a global tourism hotspot. He emphasized the need for collective effort to develop the state’s tourism industry and unlock its economic potential.
The Director-General of the Bureau of Tourism Development, Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre, commended the Governor for his passion, commitment, and visionary efforts in transforming the state’s tourism landscape. He expressed optimism that Ekiti State would soon become a must-visit destination for travelers around the world.
Present at the event were, the lawmaker, representing Efon Alaaye, Hon Olowookere Bosede, Commissioner for Trade, Mrs Tayo Adeola, Commissioner for Arts and Culture, Prof Ojo Bakare, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, among others.
