Opinion
ITS OYO STATE 2024: New direction for investment drive in sustainable tourism economy
Published
10 months agoon
By
Lanre
Unarguably, tourism in Oyo State is set to be another focal point of a sustainable economy drive to grow the gross domestic product of the pace-setter state if the innovative agendas arrived at the just concluded International Tourism Summit were given the right of place in the scheme of things.
Tagged; Unlocking Oyo State’s Tourism Potential, the two-day events, practically fulfilled the circle of the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) bid as it avails the state an uncommon privilege to gather under one roof, the best brains in Nigeria’s tourism history.
It did not only have the finest crop of core practical stakeholders in attendance , but also rallied exhibitors of both products and services as well as consultants in the value chain industry to meet minds with the aim of setting the ball rolling for well-organised tourism-driven activities in Oyo State.
The two-day international summit, which was held on April 17 and 18, at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, brought together local and international tourism stakeholders to see the opportunities and invest in the state.
Among those that congratulated the governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde for the laudable initiative of giving tourism a pride of place in the state economic drive, include the former governor of Cross River State, Mr Donald Duke, former Minister of indutry, Chief Mrs Onikepo Akande, Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, among other personalities.
The Minister, who appreciated governor Makinde for showcasing the state’s tourism treasures through tourism, assured of her partnership to explore these potential.
“Under the theme of repositioning tourism as driver of sustainable development in Oyo State, we recognize its profound impact, economic growth, social cohesion and environmental conservation.
“Together with relevant federal, state and local governments, private sector and international stakeholders, we will endeavour to showcase the beauty that Oyo State beholds for our generation to come.
In his goodwill message, the guest of honour, Donald Duke explained that educating stakeholders in the hospitality sector is essential to make the state one of the safest tourism destinations in the world.
“I want to commend the Oyo State government for putting up these audiences, but I want to also appeal that Onikepo take it beyond where we are today, let’s localise it, let’s make it our lives to ensure that each part of our state is inviting to people from all over the world.
In her remarks, the former Minister of Industry, Mr Onikepo Akande, noted that the theme of the summit is timely as the state targets a wider market of investors.
“What Oyo State is working towards here is to target a wider market of investors, projecting the new face of tourism in the state.
In his presentation, the Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde said that various speakers earlier in the day, especially during the opening presentations, discussed partnership opportunities in Oyo State and outlined what the State has to offer. It is one thing to know what we have and quite another to access it,” he stated.
“We have produced an investors’ handbook that takes a high-level look at these investments, but we are also prepared to take a deep dive into these investments.
So, what are these investment opportunities we are projecting?
“There are six of them. Ibadan Cultural Centre, Bower’s Tower, Eleyele Water Front, Idere Hill, Iyamapo Hill and Iyake Suspended Lake
If you watched the tourism documentary earlier, you would have seen all of these sites and destinations featured.
“As you may already know, we have expectations for these sites and destinations. For example, our minimum expectation is that the Ibadan Cultural Centre will be restored to its former glory.
“Under our PPDP arrangement, the primary source of funding for the project is the private investor or development organisation.
Oyo State Government is not saying, “Come we have a stack of cash somewhere that we will plough directly into the Focus 6’. I have said “Plough directly” because there is also indirect project financing which is captured and baked into infrastructure development.
“You may have heard about the rapid development of infrastructure Oyo State is carrying out, including roads that will make tourism sites easier to access and contribute to a great user experience. We have embarked on some and provided interconnectivity across all zones.
“In fact, it would be impossible to be having this conversation without the groundwork laid in the last five years.
“We know that tourism receives a greater boost when the government makes it easier for people to get to these destinations. So, part of what we are willing to offer investors is expanding the activities of the State-run transport service with the Omituntun Buses to these areas within and outside Ibadan.
“We know that some people often want to go to these sites and return to Ibadan on the same day. For the Iyake Lake, we have made that possible through the 65 km Moniya-Ijaiye-Iseyin Road. And for those trying to get in and out of the Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub, we have the 34.85 km Oyo-Iseyin Road, which passes right in front of that facility.
“But we know this does not give the type of immersive experience that tourists are seeking. That is why one of the main investments we are projecting around these sites is suitable accommodation facilities within close proximity to the tourist site.
“I think another issue investors face with land is being scammed by people who claim they own the land, but they do not. To a large extent, we have dealt with that situation, and I am sure the Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development will speak about it tomorrow. So be here to hear all he has to say.
“Of course, aside from partnerships with investors to develop these facilities that support tourism, there are also partnerships with content creators, promoters and others in the communications and marketing sector.
“I am sure in the weeks and months after this event, the State’s communication and marketing consultants will be reaching out to more of this segment to promote the State’s tourism sector.
“For many who have never been to Oyo State and even for some who live here, some of the tourism destinations mentioned today might seem very new. They may not have even heard of them. So, we agree that we need to work with the local communities and others to project these sites.
“I have heard the Honourable Commissioner quoting that we have over 100 of these sites. We are already working on a compilation of these and we will commission brochures and other materials that will further promote these sites. So that is another partnership to look forward to.”
Governor Makinde also thanked the Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade John, the former governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke and Chief (Mrs) Onikepo Akande, for their presence at the International Tourism Summit Oyo State 2024.
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Opinion
Stay Safe: SANParks urges tourists to follow wildlife safety rules
Published
3 weeks agoon
January 28, 2025By
Lanre
Following a fatal elephant encounter at Kruger National Park, SANParks urges visitors to prioritise safety and stay in vehicles during wildlife tours
South African National Parks (SANParks) has reiterated its safety guidelines following a tragic incident at Kruger National Park, where a tourist lost their life during an encounter with an elephant.
The incident occurred at Malelane Gate, highlighting the critical need for visitors to stay in their vehicles while observing wildlife.
According to reports, the fatality occurred when a tourist exited their vehicle and was charged by an elephant.
SANParks officials have expressed their condolences and emphasised the importance of adhering to safety rules designed to protect both visitors and wildlife.
This tragedy echoes a similar incident last July when a Spanish tourist at Pilanesberg National Park was fatally attacked after leaving their vehicle to photograph an elephant herd.
Such incidents underscore the risks of stepping outside vehicles in wildlife reserves.
SANParks has also called on witnesses to refrain from sharing graphic images or videos of the recent event on social media due to their sensitive nature. This appeal aims to respect the victim’s family and prevent further distress.
Authorities continue to stress that staying inside vehicles is paramount when navigating wildlife areas. “Safety protocols exist not only to protect visitors but also to preserve the natural behaviour of wildlife,” SANParks management stated.
Kruger National Park remains one of South Africa’s premier tourist destinations, attracting visitors from around the world.
However, tragedies such as this serve as stark reminders of the need for vigilance and respect for nature’s unpredictability.
By adhering to these guidelines, tourists can enjoy South Africa’s remarkable wildlife while ensuring their safety and preserving the sanctity of these natural environments.
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Opinion
Ondo monarch calls for tourism investment to boost Nigerian economy
Published
4 months agoon
October 28, 2024By
Lanre
Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, Owa Ale of Ikareland, urges Nigerian leaders to prioritise tourism investment for economic growth and cultural preservation.
The Owa Ale of Ikareland, Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, has called on Nigerian government leaders to strengthen the country’s tourism sector, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth.
Addressing attendees at the 2024 Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Festival in Ikare, Ondo State, he urged federal, state, and local governments to promote tourism as a sustainable source of employment and revenue generation.
Also read: Ondo Governor celebrates Ulefunta festival to drive economic growth
Speaking at the annual festival, which drew visitors from within Nigeria and abroad, the monarch underscored the economic and cultural benefits of tourism, describing festivals as vital for fostering local pride and identity.
“Our culture is our pride. Government support in tourism investment would not only generate revenue and employment but also enhance our economy,” he remarked.
The Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Hill, the festival’s focus, holds cultural and historical significance as a symbol of resilience and protection for the Ikare people, dating back to times of inter-tribal conflict.
The monarch lamented that Nigeria often overlooks its heritage in favour of Western influences, stressing that cultural preservation is essential for national identity.
Highlighting the growing interest in Yoruba cultural festivals, he praised the community’s dedication to revitalising local heritage, which he said was evident in the large turnout and enthusiasm at this year’s festival.
A tourist, Peter Ijigbo, also spoke passionately about the cultural importance of such festivals. “Despite my faith as a Christian, this is our heritage, and we cannot turn our backs on it.
I visited last year, and this festival has always been a spiritual and cultural sanctuary for us,” he said.
The Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Festival and similar events in Nigeria offer promising avenues for both economic growth and cultural preservation.
With strategic investments and support, Nigeria’s tourism sector could serve as a significant pillar of the national economy, providing jobs, fostering community engagement, and celebrating the country’s diverse cultural heritage.
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Opinion
Stakeholders urge sustainable tourism plans for Nigeria
Published
5 months agoon
September 30, 2024By
Lanre
At a World Tourism Day event in Abuja, stakeholders called for sustainable tourism plans to protect Nigeria’s natural and cultural resources, support local economies, and enhance visitor experiences. They stressed the importance of clean environments, such as Jabi Lake, to boost tourism and create economic opportunities, while minimising environmental harm.
Stakeholders in Nigeria have emphasised the need for sustainable tourism strategies to protect the country’s natural and cultural resources, boost local economies, and improve visitor experiences.
This call came during a press briefing held to commemorate World Tourism Day in Abuja, following a clean-up exercise at Jabi Lake.
Also read: Nigeria eyes N12.3 trillion tourism gains by 2032, 2.6 million jobs expected
The event was organised by the Eco Club, in collaboration with Jabi Boat Club, Jabi Mall, and Jabi Park.
World Tourism Day, observed annually on 27 September, highlights the significance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic value.
The theme for 2024, *Tourism and Peace*, underscores the role of tourism in fostering global understanding and reconciliation.
Speaking at the event, Aisha Yusuf, Creative Director of Hayche Network and Senior Special Adviser on Sustainable and Accessible Tourism to the Executive Director of Tourism Volunteer Network, advocated for sustainable solutions to maintain tourism in Nigeria.
“We need to create awareness about sustainable tourism and take ownership of keeping our environment clean,” she stated, calling for both individual and government action to protect destinations like Jabi Lake.
Omoefe Tawiyah, Managing Director of Platinum X Media and organiser of *Abuja I Believe*, highlighted the economic benefits of a clean and well-maintained Jabi Lake, noting its potential to attract significant tourism investments.
He remarked, “If properly cleaned, Jabi Lake will become a key destination for tourists and boost the Federal Capital Territory’s economy.”
Phil Roberts, Executive Director of Tourism Volunteers Network, urged for turning Abuja into a tourism hub. He highlighted the need to enhance infrastructure tourism, which complements natural beauty by developing facilities that attract and sustain tourists.
“Abuja has numerous tourist sites, and Jabi Lake can become a major tourism destination with the right investment and infrastructure,” Roberts explained.
The speakers agreed that preserving the environment is essential for sustainable tourism growth, which can contribute to job creation, economic development, and peacebuilding.
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