Oyo State to Become South-West Nigeria's Tourism Capital

Governor Seyi Makinde has announced that his administration has put in place policies, infrastructure, and economic enablers to position Oyo State as the tourism hub of South-West Nigeria. This was stated at the International Tourism Summit Oyo State 2026 held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan. The governor's administration is committed to making Oyo State a leading tourism destination.

The governor noted that key infrastructure projects, improved security, and efforts to revitalise tourist attractions would significantly boost tourism activities in the coming years. He also highlighted ongoing road projects across the state, which would support tourism and economic growth. These projects can't be completed overnight, but they're a crucial step in developing the state's tourism sector.

“Some of you here were part of the tour of the Oke Ogun Zone. I hope you can now see why Oyo is set to become the tourism capital of South-West Nigeria in the coming years,” he said. The state has a lot to offer, and it's poised to become a major tourist destination.

Makinde explained that his administration had prioritised institutionalising policies to ensure continuity beyond political transitions. They're building systems that can withstand changes in government. The government has established a 25-year tourism master plan committee and development frameworks for tourism assets such as Eleyele Lake. The state has also signed a 15-year concession agreement with SystemSpecs for the management of Bower’s Tower. This agreement is a significant step towards developing the state's tourism sector.

The governor acknowledged concerns often raised by investors about policy continuity after changes in government. He stated that his administration was focused on building enduring systems rather than projects tied to personalities. They're not just initiating projects; they're building structures that can sustain them. This approach won't change, even if the government changes.

Former Ekiti State governor, Kayode Fayemi, commended the governor for his approach. Fayemi urged the governor to sustain continuity in governance. He said tourism must be institutionalised to survive beyond individual administrations. Fayemi also advocated the establishment of a South-West Tourism Circuit that would connect tourist attractions across the region. This circuit would be a significant step in promoting tourism in the region.

Filmmaker Kunle Afolayan and Managing Director of Whatadeal Africa, Obafela Bank-Olemoh, commended the government for improving road infrastructure to support tourism development. They didn't hesitate to praise the government's efforts. The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatubosun, said the tourism framework being developed by the state was designed to ensure long-term growth, coordination, and consistency in policy implementation. It's a complex process, but it's necessary for the state's tourism sector.

The development of tourism in the state is expected to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and promote the state's cultural and heritage assets. The government's focus on institutionalising policies and building enduring systems is a step in the right direction. It's what the state needs to move forward. Oyo State can't afford to miss this opportunity.

The state is expected to witness significant growth in tourism activities in the coming years. With its rich cultural and heritage assets, Oyo State is poised to become a leading tourism destination in Nigeria. They're not going to let this opportunity slip away. The state's tourism sector has a lot of potential, and it's poised for growth.

The success of Oyo State's tourism sector depends on the government's ability to sustain continuity in governance and build enduring systems. They can't afford to fail. The establishment of a South-West Tourism Circuit would also be a significant step in promoting tourism in the region. It's an opportunity they shouldn't miss. As the state moves ahead with its tourism development plans, it's essential to ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably among the people.

They won't let anyone get left behind.

The future of Oyo State's tourism sector looks promising, with the government's focus on building enduring systems and promoting the state's cultural and heritage assets. As Governor Makinde said, “Leadership changes, but systems endure. So, our focus has been deliberate. For this tourism sector, we’re not just initiating projects, we’re building structures that can sustain them.” The governor's words are reassuring, and they're a testament to the state's commitment to its tourism sector.

Oyo State's tourism sector is on the path to significant growth and development. The government's efforts to institutionalise policies, build enduring systems, and promote the state's cultural and heritage assets are commendable. They're doing what it takes to make the state a leading tourism destination. As the state moves ahead, it's essential to ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably among the people, and that the sector continues to grow and develop in a sustainable manner. The state won't stop working towards its goal, and it won't rest until it's achieved.