Senator Fatai Buhari, representing Oyo North Senatorial District, has congratulated the Alado of Ado-Awaye, Oba (Rev.) Ademola Olugbile Folakanmi, on the forthcoming Iyake Natural Suspended Lake Cultural Carnival, describing the event as a national tourism treasure capable of boosting economic growth at the local, state, and national levels.
In a goodwill message, Senator Buhari praised the monarch’s foresight and cultural commitment in promoting the globally unique Iyake Suspended Lake—the world’s only natural suspended lake—through an annual carnival designed to elevate Ado-Awaye’s visibility and attract both local and international visitors.
He emphasized that the Iyake Suspended Lake is not only a natural wonder but a strategic economic resource requiring deliberate development and stronger government–community collaboration. According to him, the annual carnival holds the potential to create employment opportunities, stimulate local entrepreneurship, enhance infrastructure, and expand hospitality activities across Oyo North.
The Senator commended Oba Olugbile Folakanmi for his dedication to positioning Ado-Awaye on the global tourism map, describing him as “a visionary traditional ruler who understands the wealth-creating power of culture and heritage.”
Senator Buhari also called on government agencies, private investors, cultural promoters, corporate organizations, and tourism bodies to support the Alado’s ongoing efforts and contribute to the development of the Iyake tourism corridor.
“Iyake Suspended Lake is more than a geographical wonder; it is an untapped economic goldmine,” he said, reaffirming his readiness to support initiatives aimed at unlocking the tourism and economic potential of Oyo North.
He expressed confidence that the festival would, in the near future, grow to become one of Africa’s major cultural tourism events.
