One of the numerous offshoots of the Cross-Sectoral Collaboration for Tourism and Economic Development Conference hosted by Goge Africa is Osun State’s invitation of a powerful delegation to the State.
The delegation is comprised of African Union, represented by Oba Olasunkanmi John and Quadri-Adu Kehinde Nigerian Representatives, Wasiu Popoola of Sterling Bank, Amb. Nneka Isaac-Moses and Amb. Isaac Moses of Goge Africa, David Adepoju and Ayodeji Okunola of Union Bank and the founder of La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort, Otunba Wanle Akimboboye who is also the Chairman of the Domestic Tourism Committee and leader of the delegation.
Noting the critical place of infrastructural development in wooing investors and wealth creation translating to the wellbeing of citizens of the state, Governor Oyetola stated while welcoming the delegate at his office, that his administration is investing heavily in infrastructures to drive investments to the state. He also expressed his firm belief in the ability of the private sector to revolutionize and drive tourism for optimal performance in the state.
Expressing his delight at the choice of Osun State, he noted: “We are lucky to be the custodian of the cradle of the Yoruba race, which is Ile-Ife. This makes Osun a place to be when it comes to cultural history. We have seen it before now and I am happy that there are people who will make us realize our dreams in tourism. We are ready and willing to support in whatever form to see this through. We are investing heavily in infrastructure to make our State attractive to investors. With this development, it is clear that all the good things desired for the sector is beginning to bring the desired result and success is assured,” He concluded by thanking the delegation for honoring the State government invitation.
This inspection tour by the delegate is anticipated to be a launchpad, to facilitate the speedy development of the tourism potential of Osun state.
Otunba Olawanle Akinboboye informed all present that “The choice of Osun state as one of the benefitting States, is attached to its position as a cultural symbol, with attractive tourist sites and the proactive disposition of the state through its Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Adebisi Obawale”.
These considerations as spelt out by him, aligns with the objective and requirements of the team on the quest to transform tourism in Nigeria. Recanting the N5billion seed capital fund set aside by Sterling Bank for the development of tourism and their willingness to make more funds available, he revealed that Union Bank has also towed the same line by earmarking the sum of N10billion towards the development of domestic tourism in Nigeria.
Also in attendance at the courtesy visit were, the Deputy Governor – Mr. Benedict Alabi, Secretary to the State Governor – Prince Wole Oyebamiji, Chief of Staff to the Governor – Dr. Charles Akinola, Deputy Chief of Staff – Prince Abdullahi Binuyo, Head of Service – Dr. Festus Oyebade, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism – Dr. Adebisi Obawale, S.S.A. to the Governor on Culture and Tourism – Hon. Raimi Muhammed Opesina, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning – Prof. Olalekan Yinusa, Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties – Engr. Lekan Badmus, S.A. to the Governor for Works and Transport – Olatoke Olaniyan, and a host of others.
At the end of the courtesy call to the Governor’s office, the team accompanied by the Commissioner for Tourism and SSA to the Governor on Tourism along with the Director of Tourism and other officials, embarked on a physical assessment of some of the tourism attractions in the state. The visit was followed up with recommendations on areas of collaboration for investment.
Some of the sites visited are Owala Dam, Ataoja Palace at Osogbo, Osun Grove, Kiriji Peace Treaty Site, Olumirin Waterfall (Erin Ijesha) and the Ile-Ife Grand Resorts & Leisure.
Commenting on the tourist sites and the efforts of the Governor, the CEO of Goge Africa World Wide Limited Ambassador Isaac Moses stated “I am very impressed at the enormous tourism potential of Osun State, but more so by the willingness of the present government to support and partner the private sector to turn these attractions into destinations. The impressive disposition of Mr. Governor and his team is very commendable.”
He concluded by stating that Goge Africa and the Domestic Tourism Committee are working assiduously towards the development of domestic tourism for economic growth, and shall continue to support any State or community that shows interest and commitment in developing her tourism assets.
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