By Michael Peculiar Ekiran_
Ekiti State is poised for a significant leap forward as it prepares to host a high-profile technical assessment mission led by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) The delegation Team led by Marcel Leijzer, UN Tourism Deputy Director of the Technical Cooperation and Silk Road Department, marks a pivotal moment for the state’s tourism sector.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s leadership has been instrumental in positioning Ekiti as a key player in Nigeria’s tourism landscape. His commitment to tourism development was recently recognized when Ekiti was awarded the title of *”Most Active Tourism State in Nigeria 2023″* at the 10th Wonders of the World Expo in Lagos on January 19, 2024. This honor highlights the state’s progress and sets the stage for further advancements.
Governor Oyebanji’s achievements go beyond this accolade. *Ekiti has now become the first state in Nigeria to create a comprehensive Tourism Policy before drafting a Development Master Plan.* This proactive approach sets a new standard for tourism planning and development in Nigeria .
Additionally, *Governor Oyebanji has made history by being the first state governor globally to secure voluntary help from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) to shape Ekiti’s Tourism Development Master Plan as UN Tourism does not deal directly with states but Countries.* This groundbreaking partnership with UN Tourism reflects his dedication to aligning Ekiti’s tourism sector with international best practices and ensuring sustainable growth.
The upcoming visit by the UN Tourism delegation, led by Marcel Leijzer, UN Tourism Deputy Director of the Technical Cooperation and Silk Road Department, is a crucial step for Ekiti State. This visit isn’t just ceremonial; it’s a thorough technical assessment. The delegation will tour key tourist sites in Ekiti, providing valuable feedback that will help shape the state’s tourism policies and master plans. This assessment will be crucial for refining strategies, attracting international visitors, and promoting sustainable development.
One exciting prospect of this visit is the potential for Ekiti’s historical sites to be considered for UNESCO World Heritage status. Such recognition would not only preserve the state’s rich tourism assets but also attract global attention, turning Ekiti’s historical sites into major international attractions.
The delegation will also engage with local stakeholders, including leaders from the private sector, traditional rulers, custodians of tourism assets, and government officials. These discussions are essential for developing a unified strategy that enhances the tourism sector.
These engagements will help create a cohesive approach to tourism development, ensuring that all stakeholders work towards the state’s strategic goals. This collaboration will lay a strong foundation for the future of tourism in Ekiti, leading to greater international recognition, more tourist arrivals, and economic growth.
Moreover, this visit offers Ekiti the chance to access global funding and resources for sustainable tourism projects. Partnering with UN Tourism will provide the support needed to develop the state’s tourism sector responsibly, balancing economic benefits with environmental and cultural preservation.
The UN Tourism delegation will be guided through Ekiti’s tourist sites by key officials from the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development. The team will be led by DG Ambassador Wale Ojo Lanre, with support from the Special Assistant to the Governor on Tourism Development, Michael Peculiar Ekiran, the Executive Secretary of the Bureau, Barrister Adegboyega Morakinyo, the Director of Tourism, and other Bureau officers.
Governor Oyebanji is optimistic about the visit, seeing it as a pivotal moment for Ekiti State. He believes the insights and recognition from this mission will be crucial in establishing Ekiti as a top global tourism destination. The expected benefits—such as increased tourist numbers, job creation, and economic growth—promise significant advantages for the state.
As Ekiti eagerly awaits the arrival of the UN Tourism delegation, there is a palpable excitement throughout the state. This visit represents not just an assessment but an opportunity for Ekiti to showcase her tourism potentials and natural beauty to the world. With careful planning, international support, and the leadership of Governor Oyebanji, Ekiti State is set to make a notable impact on the global tourism scene.
_Michael Peculiar Ekiran, is the Special Assistant Tourism Development To Ekiti State Governor_