“Mark these words, Ekiti is the next big thing in the country’s tourism,” Director General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Wale Ojo- Lanre, told The Guardian. “We have so many tourism products here that we are gradually exploring.” He continued, “from eco-tourism to agro- tourism and culture tourism, we are going to harness the…
“Mark these words, Ekiti is the next big thing in the country’s tourism,” Director General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Wale Ojo- Lanre, told The Guardian. “We have so many tourism products here that we are gradually exploring.”
He continued, “from eco-tourism to agro- tourism and culture tourism, we are going to harness the tourism potential of our state. Look at Ikogosi Warm and Cold Spring Resort and Conferences, the place is now a destination for conferences.”
The DG said: “Ekiti has one of the best landscapes in the country. The landscape consists of ancient plains broken by steep-sided outcropping dome rocks. These rocks occur singly or in groups or ridges providing a spectacularly majestic scenic view of the landscape as you drive through the state.”
The state is mainly an upland zone rising over 250 metres above sea level with a rhythmically undulating surface. The Efon ridges are a distinct example; they greet you as you enter the state from the West. The state derives its name from the ruggedness of the terrain.
Not all the outcropped rocks are dome shaped, however. There are multiple flat topped and or undulating rocky, dark or grey hills forming plateaus. There are a large number of rhythmic raised plains covered with dense rain-forest type vegetation almost reminiscent of ‘sea waves’ as seen from a distance.
According to him, the hilly ridges and the outcrops provide panoramic scenery as you drive through the state. In the rural areas, some of the ridges and hills show evidence of deforestation. Foot paths are present on some of these hills consistent with human traffic. In the towns and cities, housing developments are present at some of the foothills. Some hilltops have become abode for the wealthy!
He continued, “as part of efforts to harness and enhance the tourism potential of the state, for economic growth and prosperity, Governor Biodun Oyebanji has approved the development of the state tourism development plan. The initiative is aimed at positioning Ekiti as the most sought-after tourist destination in the country.”
Oyebanji, therefore, entrusted the task of developing the comprehensive plan to Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, which is charged with designing a sustainable and strategic roadmap that would promote the abundant natural beauty, cultural heritage and historical significance of the state.
The state tourism got a lift during this year’s Easter celebration, as it hosted two major events that attracted the Tourism Minister, Mrs. Lola Ade-John; the state Governor, Oyebanji; the Director General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Alhaji Nura Sani Kangiwa and a host of other government functionaries, tourism stakeholders and fun seekers from across the state.
The events included a-two day training session for tour operators and guides in Ekiti State by NIHOTOUR, as part of the EcoGenesis Incubator Series, an initiative of the Tourism Minister, which is geared at developing manpower for the tourism sector. It is also a sustainable tourism entrepreneurship programme, targeting local communities, including women, youth and cottage industry service providers.
The second event was the staging of the sixth edition of Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari, a yearly event organised by a private firm in partnership with the Ekit State government.
The Minister of Tourism, Mrs Lola-Ade John, who flagged off the training workshop at Ikogosi on Sunday, March 31, said her visit to Ekiti state was to encourage and promote the eco-tourism sector of the state as well as giving a fillip to her philosophy of community-based tourism.
She observed that the beauties of Ekiti tourist sites needed to be tapped and explored to the world, promising Federal Government’s collaboration.
According to the minister, the future of tourism in Ekiti looks promising and urged participants to use the opportunity to develop the sector in the state.
While commending Oyebanji for his commitment to developing and promoting Ekiti tourism, she disclosed that part of her mission in the state is to encourage and support the state tourism, especially eco-tourism. She pledged support of the Federal Government in partnering with the state.
Also speaking at the opening ceremony of the intensive training programme for tour operators, which attracted over 45 participants, Alhaji Kangiwa disclosed that tour operating alone contributes more than 118 million jobs across the globe, which translates to 3.8 per cent global employment as reported by World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).
He said that records also have it that for every 30 new tourists created, one new job is created in every industry of the sector. “In fact, it is estimated that tourism will continue to grow to 414 million jobs and 11.6 per cent of total employment by 2028,” he said.
Kangiwa noted that the choice of Ado-Ekiti to host the intensive training programme for the Nigeria Tour Operators is symbolic owing to the endowed tourism resources of Ekiti state’s cultural heritage. This, he said, includes hospitality, cuisines, natural beauties of Ikogosi Cold and Warm Spring Resort, Abanijorin Rock for sightseeing, mountaineering, hiking, conservation research, eco-tourism and agro-tourism amongst other human benefits.
“From the foregoing, the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) being the apex body backed by the Act of the Parliament to pursue and professionalise the sector, is poised to pursuing its mandate to train, certificate and register sector operative and practitioner personnel towards creating jobs, generating employment for self-reliance, reducing unemployment, restiveness and improving national economy,” he said.
He urged the sector workforce to take advantage of NIHOTOUR training programmes to start a professional career or up-skill and advance from craft to managerial levels to build individual and organisation personnel capacity. Our training modules, he added, are stakeholders validated to meet challenges of specific occupational trade skills standards and quality service delivery for the tourism sector.
The NIHOTOUR boss said: “It is my desire that at the end of this intensive training programme, the participants will put the additionally knowledge, skills and competence acquired to practice to identify tourist destinations, package tours, link up with international tourist destinations managers and tour operation consultants to put Nigeria on global tourist map.”
From the early morning, the enchanting landscape of Abanijorin cave and mountain in Iyin-Ekiti was already agog. The young and old alike had come to savour the Mountain Safari experience. For hours, they stood by the foot of the mountain to see the hike flagged off.
Governor Oyebanji led enthusiastic team that included Senator Babafemi Ojudu, wife of Oluyin, Olori Adeniyi Ajakaye; Speaker, Ekiti State Assembly, Mr Adeoye Aribasoye and other hikers on the hill walking. Also at the event was the Minister of Tourism, Mrs Lola Ade-John.
The Minister commended the collaborative spirit demonstrated in orchestrating Mountain Safari 6.0, emphasising its significance in spotlighting Ekiti’s tourism potential on a global scale.
She stressed the imperative of preserving the region’s natural habitats and cultural landmarks for future generations, noting that events like these are catalysts for sustainable development and cultural preservation.
Conceived by the Discover Ekiti Tourism Club in collaboration with the Ojo-Lanre-led Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Oyebanji used the occasion to solicit the help of Federal Government in developing the state tourism master plan. The governor observed that tourism is the next after oil and agriculture, adding that tourism has the potential to revive the economy of the nation.
He disclosed that the multiplier effects of Ekiti tourism are enormous as it would create more job opportunities for the people, a healthy environment and as well improve the revenue base of the state.
The Governor expressed pride in witnessing the boundless enthusiasm of participants as they delved into the scenic marvels of the Abanijorin Cave and Mountains, reaffirming his commitment to promoting Ekiti as a premier tourism destination.
Abanijorin Mountain has seven caves, rock tunnel, amphitheatre and breathtaking vista.
The governor did not just go on hiking, but also demonstrated his strong passion for culture and tourism promotion by pounding yam on the mountain top. It was the high point of the event. It was a demonstration of his love for Ekiti culinary. This symbolic act not only highlighted the governor’s connection to his roots but also underscored the significance of food tourism in promoting and preserving Ekiti’s unique culinary traditions.
Interestingly, pounded yam, a delicacy made from boiled yam tubers holds a special place in the hearts and palates of Ekiti people. It is not just a meal but a symbol of communal identity and unity, often shared during festive occasions, gatherings and ceremonies.
The choice of Abanijorin Rocks, as the setting for this culinary spectacle added another layer of significance to the event. As one of Ekiti’s natural wonders, the rocks stand tall as a testament to the state’s breathtaking landscapes and adventurous spirit.
By bringing the traditional practice of pounding yam to such a majestic location, Governor Oyebanji not only paid homage to Ekiti’s agricultural heritage but also invited locals and tourists alike to appreciate the beauty of their surroundings while indulging in the region’s culinary delights.
The Ekiti Mountain Hike served as a platform to promote food tourism and recognise the economic potentials of showcasing Ekiti’s gastronomic offerings to a wider audience. In an era where travelers seek authentic cultural experiences and unique culinary adventures, Ekiti’s traditional cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques, presents a compelling draw for visitors seeking to explore the rich tapestry of Nigerian culture.
Again, beyond its cultural significance, Gov. Oyebanji’s act of pounding yam atop Abanijorin sent a message on the need to preserve and celebrate indigenous food in the face of modernisation and globalisation.
Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, expressed delight in the enthusiasm of participants, as they immersed themselves in Ekiti’s natural wonders.
While lauding the organisers for their dedication to showcasing the region’s diverse landscapes and promoting eco-friendly tourism practices, she reaffirmed government’s unwavering support for initiatives that strengthen economic growth and environmental stewardship.
Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, also appreciated the inclusivity of Mountain Safari 6.0, which brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds to celebrate Ekiti’s rich heritage.
He stressed the pivotal role of collaboration between government, private enterprises and local communities in harnessing tourism’s potentials as a driver of socio-economic progress and cultural exchange.
Senator Babafemi Ojudu, who actually pledged to support next year’s event with prizes, extolled the adventurous spirit displayed by participants, as they traversed the trails of Abanijorin Cave and Mountains.
While disclosing the significance of events such as Mountain Safari 6.0 in promoting outdoor recreation, health and wellness, emphasised their positive impact on individual well-being.
He commended organisers for their commitment to showcasing Ekiti’s natural treasures and fostering community engagement.
Earlier, Governor Oyebanji in company of the Minister of Tourism and her team had visited the Palace of Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti, Oba Adeniyi Ajakaye.
The Palace briefed the delegation on the great potential and the historical facts about the mountain “Okuta Aba ni Jorin” while seeking government’s development.
In his remark, Director General Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Ojo-Lanre, stressed the economic importance of hiking, noting that it is a big boost for tourism revenue and employment opportunities for the people. He expressed appreciation to Ade-John, Kangiwa, Oyebanji and other guests for at- tending the event, noting that their presence signifies a shared commitment to advancing the growth and development of the tourism sector.