Oyo State Government pledges support for investors aligning with Governor Makinde’s vision to grow tourism and boost local economic development

Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to partner with private investors who share Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision of driving economic growth through tourism and innovation.

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According to Punchng, the state Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, made this known on Tuesday during a visit to the Royal Entertainment Cruise Resort in Eleyele, Ibadan.

The facility, he said, showcases the potential of leisure and tourism to transform local economies.

Oyelade described the resort as a model investment featuring a paintball arena, children’s play zone, snooker hall, and a boat cruise dock with multiple speedboats, all designed to provide a complete leisure experience for visitors.

“We are delighted to see this kind of forward-thinking investment in Oyo State,” Oyelade said. “Governor Makinde’s administration believes tourism can create jobs, boost local economies, and position Oyo as a leading destination for culture and leisure in Nigeria.”

He added that the project exemplifies how private-sector participation can enhance the state’s tourism profile, noting that such water-based attractions are rare in the South-West outside Lagos.

The commissioner assured that the government will work closely with the facility to promote it across media platforms and attract both domestic and international tourists.

In his remarks, the resort’s Chief Executive Officer, Sanmi Bamidele, thanked the government for its support and expressed pride in contributing to the state’s tourism renaissance.

“The government cannot do it alone,” Bamidele said. “What we’re doing supports Governor Makinde’s vision to increase revenue through tourism.

People now travel from across Nigeria and even from Europe to experience what we’ve built. Ibadan is fast transforming from the city of brown roofs into a marine destination, and we’re proud to be part of that change.”

Bamidele noted that the resort has created jobs for residents in Eleyele and nearby communities, while also enhancing the area’s aesthetics. He further appreciated the governor’s promise to rehabilitate the access road leading to the site.

The commissioner, accompanied by Permanent Secretary Rotimi Babalola and senior ministry officials, concluded the visit with a tour of the facility, engaging in paintball and boat cruise activities.

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The Oyo State Government reiterated that it would continue to support investors whose projects align with its economic and tourism development goals, reinforcing its determination to make the state a hub for sustainable growth and cultural innovation.