The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Saturday said his administration has taken bold steps to reposition the state as Nigeria’s leading destination for cultural and creative tourism.

Governor Abiodun, while reiterating his commitment to making tourism a key driver of inclusive growth and economic diversification, disclosed that beyond physical infrastructure, it is focusing strongly on inclusivity and empowerment.

He made this known at the 48th edition of World Tourism Day, themed “Tourism for Sustainable Transformation” and held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.

Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, emphasised the training and skill-building initiatives for women and youth involved in tourism-related endeavours, especially Adire manufacturing, which, according to him, has received international recognition on global fashion runways.

He said, “In line with this, our administration has taken bold steps to reposition Ogun State as Nigeria’s leading destination for cultural and creative tourism. We have renovated and expanded the Olumo Rock Tourist Complex, transforming it into a world-class site with modern infrastructure, improved safety, and creative spaces such as the Nike Arts Gallery.

“Beyond physical infrastructure, we have committed to inclusivity and empowerment. Our youth and women are being trained for tourism-related opportunities; our cultural industries, particularly Adire, are now recognized on global fashion runways; and our creative economy is being nurtured to tell Ogun’s story in ways that resonate both locally and internationally.”

The governor declared the 2025 celebration open, calling on all citizens, cultural custodians, entrepreneurs, and partners to join hands in preserving, promoting, and globalizing the treasures of the state.

Delivering the United Nations Secretary-General’s message at the event, the State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sesan Fagbayi, emphasized that tourism remains a powerful engine of opportunity, capable of creating jobs, strengthening human connections, and driving inclusive change.

He insisted that tourism must be inclusive, equitable, and green if it is to truly fulfill its promise of sustainable transformation.

“The transformation of the iconic Olumo Rock Tourist Centre remains one of the most remarkable achievements of the present administration. All hands must be on deck to create jobs and improve the living standards of our people through tourism,” Fagbayi said.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Culture and Tourism, Adebola Basibo-Odoru, assured that the government would keep collaborating closely with stakeholders to make sure that tourism continues to be a driver of inclusive and sustainable growth throughout the state.

Some of the dignitaries in attendance included the National President, Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria, Adetunji Fadina; Chairman, Ogun State House Committee on Arts, Culture & Tourism, Hon. Kaka Segun; Permanent Secretary, Ogun Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Qudus Yusuf; Dr. Harrison Edo, the Coordinator, UNIFECS Programmes, Obafemi Awolowo University, Sango-Ota Study Centre; among others.

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