The Oyo State Government has concluded plans to hand over the management of the historic Agodi Gardens to a private investor, in a move that signals a new direction in the state’s tourism and cultural asset management strategy.
Governor Seyi Makinde made the disclosure in the May 2025 edition of his monthly newsletter, where he described the development as a bold step toward opening Oyo’s doors to innovation, creativity, and private investment in cultural heritage.
“This is our future—built on preserved heritage and powered by strategic partnerships,” the governor stated.
Agodi Gardens, formerly known as the Agodi Zoological and Botanical Gardens, was established in 1967. It served as a major recreational destination in Ibadan until the 1980 Ogunpa flood disaster destroyed much of the facility and swept away most of the animals. The gardens were later renovated in 2012 and reopened to the public in 2014, featuring attractions such as a water park, lake, mini zoo, children’s play area, and picnic grounds.
The announcement comes as preparations intensify for the second edition of the International Tourism Summit, tagged #ITSOyoState2025, which is scheduled to hold on July 24, 2025. The theme of the summit is “Sanctuary of Yoruba Heritage: A Celebration of Roots and Legacy.”
According to Governor Makinde, the summit will go beyond cultural festivities to serve as “an economic turning point” for the state. A major highlight of the summit will be an Investors Forum, where the state government will present five major tourism sites for private sector expression of interest and competitive bidding.
“This summit will not just be a cultural event,” the governor noted. “At its core is the Investors Forum, which will help us drive sustainable growth in the tourism sector.”
With the planned concession of Agodi Gardens and the upcoming summit, the Oyo State Government is positioning itself to attract local and international investment while promoting the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.
