The First Lady of Kwara State, Professor Olufolake Abdulrasaq, has urged local and international tourists to explore the tourism potentialities in the state.

Abdulrazaq made the call in Ilorin during the recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) and conference of the National Association of Nigeria Tour Operators (NATOP).

“Kwara, with its vantage in the North-Central region, is endowed with immense and captivating tourist destinations, widely referred to as ‘a wonder in the wilderness.”

“The Owu falls is the highest and most spectacular natural waterfall in West Africa.

“Founded in 1945 and widely referenced as the mother of all museums in Nigeria, the Esie Museum is located in Irepodun local government area of Kwara state.

“We have Imole Boja rock shelter, we also have the Sobi hills, the University of Ilorin Zoological Garden, the Dada pottery, the Aso-Oke weaving centres among other very interesting sites.

“In celebrating our culture and traditions, we equally have the annual Ilorin Durbar, the Gani festival, the Shao mass wedding and the Patigi boat regatta to mention a few,” she said.

Abdulrazaq, who commended the tour operators for bringing their annual conference to the state, urged them to explore the spots mentioned and further promote the economic potential that abound in the state.

She said Kwara’s rich historical background, wonders of nature and exquisite cultural events were sights to behold.

She informed that Gov. Abdulrasaq is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that opportunities in the tourism sector in the state are maximised.

According to her, this is evident in government’s engagements in partnerships, evolving investment friendly policies and putting in place infrastructure to drive all sectors of the state’s economy.

“In complementing this drive of government, my office and the Ajike People Support Centre are actively involved in promoting tourism and celebrating the cultural heritage of our people.

“It may interest you to know that during our host of the Commonwealth quiz competition, top functionaries of the British government were conducted round some of these beautiful sites.”

“Also, I have sponsored some of our traditional Aso-Oke weavers to participate in fashion shows of international repute with a view to showcasing Kwara State and enhancing their capacities,” she said.