The Pathfinder Club Saki, a socio-tourism fellowship of schoolmates with a shared passion for exploration, has embarked on a two-day tour of Ekiti State, praising Governor Biodun Oyebanji for transforming the state into a prime tourism destination.
Founded a decade ago, the club has made annual tourism expeditions across Nigeria a tradition. Club President, Dr. Ayandiran Ayankola, said the mission has always been to “explore the world, expand horizons, and strengthen bonds.”
“This year, we unanimously chose Ekiti because of its impressive tourism profile under Governor Oyebanji,” explained the club’s General Secretary, Mr. Ashiru Wahab. “The state’s strong security architecture and bold tourism vision, driven by the Bureau of Tourism Development under Barr. Wale Ojo-Lanre, have put Ekiti firmly on the map.”
The group visited Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort & Conference Centre, Arinta Waterfall in Ipole Iloro, and the ambitious Ise Pyramid Project led by Prof. Philip Omoniyi Adetiloye. They also toured the Ise Pyramid Centre and other attractions.
Treasurer, Mr. Hassan Jelili Oyedokun, described the trip as “a judicious choice that delivered full value,” while PRO, Mr. Adedokun Jemil, declared, “Ekiti has it all when it comes to tourism. We enjoyed every bit of it.”
The delegation began their visit at the Bureau of Tourism Development in the Governor’s Office, where Mr. Peculiar Ikiran, Special Assistant on Tourism Development, gave a detailed presentation of Ekiti’s tourism assets.
As a highlight, Dr. Ayankola presented Barr. Ojo-Lanre with a hand-sculpted traditional pot from Saki, calling him “an indefatigable tourism champion” whose work inspired their journey.
In response, Ojo-Lanre thanked the group for “the true gift to Ekiti — your presence,” adding that their visit shows the state’s tourism campaign is resonating far beyond its borders.
