Oyo Gov’t To Model State For Tourism-led Economic Transformation

Oyo State government has restated its commitment to unlock public-private partnerships, secure long-term investments, and reposition the state as Nigeria’s model for tourism-led economic transformation.

Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Media, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju stated this while announcing the second edition of the International Tourism Summit Oyo State (ITSOyoState2025).

He said the high-level international tourism summit scheduled to be held in July 2025 would focus on strategic investment opportunities.

Olanrewaju said the 2025 edition of the summit was poised to be a game-changer for tourism investment in Nigeria.

“This year’s summit is not just a celebration of culture, it is a strategic investors’ gathering designed to present some high-impact tourism investment destinations to both local and international investors”, he said.

He explained that participants for the ITSOyoState2025 will be drawn from foreign embassies, international and domestic tourism operators, financial institutions, development partners, and the private sector.

Dr Olanrewaju added that the summit would showcase an exclusive investment roundtable where viable, government-backed tourism projects will be pitched directly to investors.

He revealed also that there would be site visits to three heritage-rich destinations, including royal palaces and ecotourism hubs, providing firsthand exposure to investment-ready opportunities.

Others included a showcase of Oyo State’s renewed infrastructure, safety record, and regulatory environment, which were already driving increased tourist traffic, investor interest and cultural exhibitions and curated networking opportunities to foster meaningful collaborations across sectors.

Speaking on the significance of the summit, the governor’s aide noted that the administration of Governor Makinde has deliberately positioned tourism as a pillar for diversifying the state’s economy.

“The state’s revamped road network, improved security architecture, streamlined policies, and digital investor support systems now make it one of the most attractive destinations for tourism investment in West Africa”, he said.

As a result, Olanrewaju disclosed that a seven-member planning committee had been inaugurated, chaired by Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, commissioner for Culture and Tourism.

Other members included Commissioner for Finance, Akinola Ojo; Executive Adviser on Agribusiness, International Cooperation and Development, Dr Debo Akande and Director General, Oyo State Mobilisation Agency for Socio-Economic Development (OYMASED), Dr Morohunkola Thomas.

Others are Director General, Oyo State Investment and Public-Private Partnership Agency (OYSIPA), Mr Tilewa Folami; the Special Adviser on Media, Dr Olanrewaju; Special Duties to the Governor, Ms Lolade Ajibola and Ms Abigail Anaba, the chief experience officer, Slvr Wlf Digitale Ltd.