The Guild of Tourism Journalists in Nigeria, GTJN, has applauded the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji over his determination to restore and uplift the sector in Ekiti state and the enhancement of Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort, Ikogosi Ekiti back to global excellence and international reckoning.
A release signed by Remi Oladoye, Secretary of the Association reads:” We members of this Association are proud of your tourism initiatives, policy and determination to develop the tourism sector not only by words of mouth but by deeds’
Mr Oladoye revealed that ‘ We are glad that Governor Biodun Oyebanji has made tourism development the 6th sectoral policy of his government. This is not only cheering but hope-laden news for both tourism. practitioners in the state and also for the numerous tourism sites in Ekiti State.
The Guild of Tourism Journalists in Nigeria is the only tourism association in Nigeria which has an unmitigated interest in the development of the tourism sector in Ekiti State in particular and in Nigeria in general.”
He added that ‘ I must bring to the memory the part played by this association during the pre and post-restoration of Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort, Ikogosi Ekiti, in 2012 under the first tenure of Dr Kayode Fayemi, when the Association mobilized its members in highlighting in sequential order, the restoration, inauguration and post-inauguration of the rehabilitated Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort and we never kept our mouth shut when the Resort was abused and neglected.
The Association pointed out that ‘ Hence, we are glad that Governor Oyebanji is not only making politics out of his tourism policy but has taken the first step of conviction by concessions Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort to a world-class company which will turn Ikogosi into an eldorado of heavenly bliss and wonderful destination once again ‘
The Association pointed out Ekiti is a paragon of numerous tourism potentialities only waiting to be tapped and cultivated for empowerment, employment, revenue generation and development.
The Association assured Governor Oyebanji ‘ We are ready to form a synergy of purpose with your government as part of our development journalism ethos. You have displayed a robust sense of tourism-friendly posture, consider us as your partner in the progress and advancement of tourism in Ekiti State.’
