Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji actively participated in the 7th Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari, emphasizing tourism’s economic importance and committing to develop the state’s natural attractions like the stunning Sagbonke mountain

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, demonstrated his commitment to boosting the state’s tourism sector by joining over a thousand hikers, adventurers, and celebrities at the 7th edition of the Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari – Hike & Dine in the Clouds.

Also read: Ekiti, Oyo tourism leaders collaborate to boost economic growth through tourism

The event, a collaboration between Discover Ekiti Tourism Club, the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, and the Efon-Alaaye-in-Council, showcased the natural beauty of the region.

Speaking at the event held in Efon-Alaaye on Easter Monday, Governor Oyebanji underscored the vital role of tourism in the state’s economy.

He stated that with proper cultivation, tourism could significantly increase Ekiti’s revenue and affirmed his administration’s dedication to renovating and modernizing tourist sites to attract both local and international visitors.

Governor Oyebanji expressed his awe at the breathtaking scenery of the Sagbonke mountain, calling it a “hidden treasure” with significant global appeal.

God has given us what can fetch us money… this is a massive asset for Ekiti State… Let us sit down and collaborate with government and find a way of developing this,” said Governor Biodun Oyebanji, highlighting the untapped potential of Ekiti’s natural endowments.

He promptly directed the Commissioner for Industry, Trade, Investment and Cooperatives, the Commissioner for Arts and Culture, and the Director-General of the Bureau of Tourism Development to formulate a comprehensive investment plan for the mountain.

Expressing optimism about Ekiti’s future as a leading tourist destination in Nigeria, the Governor urged stakeholders, including investors and cultural custodians, to partner with his government to realize the vision of establishing Ekiti as a global tourism hotspot.

Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, lauded the impressive turnout and the growing momentum behind Ekiti’s ecotourism revolution.

Michael Peculiar Ekiran, Founder of Discover Ekiti Tourism Club and Special Assistant to the Governor on Tourism Development, conveyed his gratitude to the state government, corporate sponsors, and the Efon community for their invaluable support in making the event a success.