Ekiti State has reinforced its status as Nigeria’s tourism trailblazer by hosting the 2025 World Tourism Day at the virgin source of the Osun River in Igede-Ekiti. The event, which aligned with the global theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” highlighted the state’s commitment to heritage preservation, community involvement, and sustainable development.
The celebration began at the palace of the Onigede of Igede-Ekiti, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru, Africa’s longest-reigning monarch with 66 years on the throne, who was joined by other royal fathers including the Olupole of Ipole, Olosi of Osi, Alayemore of Efon, Apeju of Ilupeju, and Owalogbo of Ilogbo. Oba Aladesuru described the Osun River source as “history, identity, and blessing,” stressing that hosting the global celebration at the site was a way of honoring heritage.
The event featured a cultural parade by Igede school pupils, Ekiti State University tourism students, Redeemer University contingents, and community groups. Voices from the younger generation emphasized the fusion of learning and heritage, with EKSU student Funke Akinyemi saying, “This is our classroom — tourism lived, not just taught.” Igede Youth President, Olawale Omotoyinbo, commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for “bringing the world to Igede,” while Dr. Austin, President of Igede Progressive Association, pledged community support for the governor’s second term bid.
Cultural custodians also reinforced the sacred value of the Osun River. Barrister Tunde Olaolorun, an Ifa adherent, described the celebration as proof that “tourism without tradition is empty,” while Chief Okebiorun, a Babalawo, noted that its preservation is both spiritual and sustainable.
Academics and policy experts highlighted Ekiti’s structured approach to tourism development. Prof. Aina of ABUAD praised the state for moving “beyond ceremony to structure,” while Prof. Philip Adetiloye of the Ise-Ekiti Pyramid Project said Governor Oyebanji’s model blends heritage with innovation.
Awards were presented to individuals and institutions for their contributions to heritage and tourism. Adeyemi Adejolu of Efon, who also received an award on behalf of the Efon Development Union, described the recognition as “humbling and historic.” Hon. Akin Abimbola, President of the Ekiti State Hoteliers Association, said the state’s policy direction had boosted investor confidence in hospitality and tourism.
Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, described the event as “a manifesto of sustainability,” stressing that every initiative was in line with Governor Oyebanji’s directive. He said the state had successfully demonstrated that tourism must endure as legacy, not just event.
Governor Oyebanji, recently named Nigeria’s Tourism Governor of the Year, has distinguished himself as the first governor to initiate both a comprehensive tourism policy and a tourism development master plan for the sector. Together, these provide rules, structures, and a roadmap for heritage protection, community inclusion, and investor confidence.
By celebrating at a virgin heritage site, involving royalty, youth, academia, heritage custodians, and communities, while also recognizing champions, Ekiti State has set a replicable model for how tourism can drive sustainable transformation in Nigeria and beyond.
