Bilkisu Ogueyi revitalises Kogi tourism, focusing on attractions like Agbaja Plateau and River Niger to boost the state’s global appeal.
Kogi State is undergoing a remarkable transformation in its tourism sector under the leadership of Bilkisu Abdulsalam Ogueyi, the general manager of the Kogi State Hotels and Tourism Board.
With her wealth of experience as a former president of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) and over 20 years in the industry, Ogueyi is leveraging her expertise to reposition Kogi’s numerous attractions as major tourist destinations.
Since assuming her role, Ogueyi has undertaken extensive engagements with stakeholders across the state, forging collaborations with private sector players and external organisations to stimulate growth in the sector.
A notable milestone was her meeting with Wanle Akinboboye, founder of La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort in Lagos.
This collaboration aims to inspire the development of similar world-class resorts in Kogi, particularly leveraging the River Niger’s scenic potential.
Following the Lagos meeting, Ogueyi led her team and investors from Abuja on a field trip from 20–21 November 2024, to explore prominent attractions in Lokoja.
The sites visited included Agbaja Plateau, the Confluence River, Mount Patti, and Jimbe Beach.
The Agbaja Plateau is a sprawling 50-kilometre expanse known for its striking ironstone formations and rich ecological significance.
Rising between 300 and 600 metres above sea level, the plateau features rugged terrains, natural caves, and flat-topped hills, making it a haven for geologists and nature enthusiasts.
It is also home to local communities with vibrant traditions and historical landmarks such as a colonial-era rest house linked to Lord Lugard.
Lokoja’s iconic Confluence River is where the Niger and Benue Rivers meet, creating a y-shaped spectacle. Best experienced at sunrise or sunset, this geographical wonder offers scenic views, boating opportunities, and cultural immersion at nearby riverside markets.
Historically, Lokoja served as Nigeria’s first administrative capital under British rule, further enhancing the site’s allure.
Mount Patti, standing 458 metres above sea level, offers panoramic views of Lokoja and the Niger-Benue confluence. It is also steeped in history, hosting a colonial rest house associated with Lord Lugard.
The mountain caters to adventurers with hiking trails and recreational spots, making it a popular choice for both tourists and locals.
Situated along Kogi’s riverbanks, Jimbe Beach provides a tranquil environment for picnics, fishing, and leisure activities. Surrounded by lush vegetation, the beach also facilitates cultural exchange with nearby fishing communities.
The team identified infrastructural deficits across all sites, including poor road networks, limited tourist amenities, and inadequate promotional efforts.
Specific issues include lack of signage at Mount Patti, poor accessibility to the Agbaja Plateau, and minimal facilities at Jimbe Beach.
To address these issues, Ogueyi proposed:
- Infrastructure upgrades and eco-tourism initiatives.
- Development of guided tours and annual cultural festivals.
- Restoration of historical structures and the introduction of recreational amenities.
- Enhanced marketing to position Kogi as a leading destination in Nigeria.
In her concluding remarks, Ogueyi emphasised the unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance that Kogi’s attractions offer.
“By improving infrastructure, promoting eco-tourism, and preserving natural and cultural resources, we can unlock their full potential as prime tourist attractions in Nigeria,” she said.
As the revitalisation journey continues, the Kogi State Hotels and Tourism Board plans to explore more sites, fostering partnerships and investments to transform the state into a premier tourist hub.
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