Edo Targets Jobs, Higher Revenue From Tourism

Edo State government has reiterated its commitment to leveraging tourism as a major driver of economic growth, job creation and increased Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), saying the sector remains critical to reducing dependence on federal allocations.

The director-general of the Edo State Tourism Agency, Mrs Vivian Elabor, stated this yesterday in Benin City while addressing journalists ahead of the 2026 Edo Tourism Summit, Exhibition and Fashion Show.

Elabor said the state is endowed with enormous tourism potential, boasting about 72 tourism sites spread across its three senatorial districts, many of which remain underutilised.

According to her, the agency is implementing strategies aimed at transforming Edo into a leading tourism destination while creating employment opportunities for residents and boosting government revenue.

“Edo State must reduce its dependence on allocations from the centre. Tourism has a critical role to play in driving economic development, and we are determined to make Edo a leading tourism destination,” she said.

The tourism agency boss noted that preserving the state’s cultural and historical assets remains a key component of the government’s tourism development agenda.

She, however, expressed concern over the indiscriminate dumping of refuse in Edo’s historic moats, warning that offenders would face stiff penalties.

Elabor described the moats as important heritage sites built by the ancestors for the protection of communities and stressed the need for residents to support efforts aimed at restoring and preserving them.

“Today, many people do not appreciate the value of the moats. The outside world understands the importance of preserving tourist sites, and we want our people to have the same understanding,” she said.

She disclosed that the forthcoming summit, themed ‘‘Edo Tourism: The New Frontier Exhibition and Fashion Show,’’ is designed to showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential.

Among the attractions and cultural festivals highlighted by the DG are Igun Street, Igue Festival, Ososo Festival, Ubiaja Festival and the Amar Waterfall in Esanland.

Also speaking, the Director of Administration and Supplies of the agency, Mrs Kushe Ojekhoa, said the 2026 Tourism Summit, Exhibition and Fashion Show would hold from June 29 to June 30.

She added that winners of the fashion show would receive cash prizes, while all participants would be rewarded with participation fees to encourage creativity and support emerging talents.