By Wale Ojo – Lanre Esq
Any rational being who understands the import and essence of having a regular supply of power in a community will appreciate the effort of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s strive to ensure that Ekiti State is on a good footing when it comes to instituting and maintaining sanity in the energy sector in Ekiti State.
Governor Oyebanji has gotten the nerve to challenge the irregular supply of power to some key areas in Ekiti State by first ensuring the continuity of the Independent Power Project, IPP, which his predecessor began, and ensuring its inauguration for operation.
As of now some vital areas like the State Secretariat, State Hospital Complex, Ekiti State University, and others are on the roll to enjoying uninterrupted power supply.
But to Governor Oyebanji, this move on IPP is not enough to guarantee the citizen’s satisfaction, hence, he took another stride by acquiring the transition in electricity regulatory oversight right.
One of the key benefits of Oyebanji’s act of unlocking the power potential through Ekiti State’s transition in electricity regulatory oversight is its positive impact on the development of tourism in the state. Here’s how the two aspects are interconnected:
Reliable and Affordable Electricity: By addressing the challenges in the power sector and increasing power generation capacity, Oyebanji’s initiatives aim to provide more reliable and affordable electricity to residents and businesses in Ekiti State.
Improved Infrastructure for Tourism: A reliable electricity supply is crucial for the development of tourism infrastructure, such as hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other amenities that cater to visitors.
With a more stable and dependable power supply, tourism-related businesses can operate more efficiently, enhance their services, and provide a better experience for tourists.
Attractiveness for Investors and Visitors: The improved electricity situation in Ekiti State, facilitated by the transition in regulatory oversight, makes the state more attractive for investment in the tourism sector.
Investors are more likely to commit resources to developing tourism facilities and attractions when they can rely on a consistent and adequate power supply.
Additionally, tourists are more likely to visit Ekiti State if they can expect a comfortable and hassle-free experience, which is largely dependent on the availability of reliable electricity.
Boosting the Tourism Economy:The synergy between the power sector reforms and the development of tourism can lead to a more vibrant and thriving tourism industry in Ekiti State.
As the tourism sector grows, it can generate more employment opportunities, increase revenue for local businesses, and contribute to the overall economic development of the state.
In conclusion, Oyebanji’s efforts to unlock the power potential and the subsequent transition in electricity regulatory oversight in Ekiti State have a direct and positive impact on the development and growth of the tourism industry in the state.
This, in turn, can lead to increased investment, better visitor experiences, and a stronger economic foundation for the state’s tourism sector.
……Ojo-Lanre Esq is the Director -of General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development.