Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, has been awarded the prestigious Award of Excellence in Rural Tourism by Durian NG, an internationally recognized non-governmental organization focused on sustainable rural development.
The award was presented during the “Rural is Cool” Conference, held at The Dome, Akure, Ondo State, and hosted by Durian NG from its base in Imafon Village. The accolade was presented by Miss Tony Joy, founder of Durian NG, in recognition of Ojo-Lanre’s dedication and pioneering work in rural tourism, particularly within Ekiti State.
The award ceremony was a highlight of the conference, which emphasized the transformative power of rural tourism as a tool for community empowerment, economic diversification, and sustainable development. Ojo-Lanre’s initiatives in promoting the untapped beauty, culture, and tourism potential of Ekiti’s rural areas were described as “trailblazing” and “impactful.”
Durian NG, known for its innovative work in training rural communities in sustainable ecological practices and “turning waste to wealth,” noted that Ojo-Lanre’s vision aligns perfectly with their mission. By creating platforms for rural tourism, Ojo-Lanre has helped channel tourism income into rural areas, supporting local artisans, guides, hospitality providers, and entrepreneurs, and contributing to resilient local economies.
Rural tourism, as championed at the conference, was hailed for its multi-faceted benefits, including:
- Cultural Preservation: Encouraging communities to protect and share their unique traditions, folklore, crafts, and heritage sites.
- Environmental Stewardship: Promoting ecological responsibility by linking economic benefits to conservation efforts.
- Community Empowerment: Equipping residents with marketable skills in guiding, hospitality, and craftsmanship through hands-on training.
- Authentic Cultural Exchange: Creating deeper understanding between tourists and locals through immersive experiences.
Speaking after receiving the award, Ojo-Lanre reaffirmed his commitment to rural development through tourism and credited the Ekiti State Government, under Governor Biodun Oyebanji, for its support in implementing inclusive and sustainable tourism policies.
“This award is not just for me, but for every rural community that has opened its doors and hearts to tourism. It validates our belief that rural is not only cool but full of promise,” he said.
The recognition of Wale Ojo-Lanre by Durian NG marks a significant milestone for rural tourism advocacy in Nigeria and serves as a call to action for stakeholders across the country to invest in sustainable, community-led tourism development.
