OMG ! See what Chinese Investors did to pounded yam in Ekiti
….Commend Ministry of Investment
……. Explore Ekiti’s Tourism Potential, Relish Local Delicacies
By Dolapo Ogunleye Adewumi
A delegation from the Working Committee for Overseas Cooperation of the China Association for Small and Medium Enterprises recently visited Ekiti State under the auspices of the Ministry of Trade, Investment, Industry, and Cooperative. The delegation, hosted by the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, was captivated by the state’s tourism potential and its rich hospitality culture.
Led by Chinweuba Innocent Okwonkwo, Chairman of the Belt and Road Africa Economic Initiative Centre, the delegation included notable members such as Zezhing Yang, Dean of the Qingdao Tourism Planning and Architectural Design Institute; Gong Changxin and Zhao Maojun from Changzhou Sanxin Energy Co., Ltd.; and He Lixiong, Executive Secretary of the organization.
The Chinese Investors were cheperoned to Ekiti State by the Commissioner for Investment Trade Industry and Cooperative Mrs Adeola Omotayo and her team to some pivotal MDAs
They were warmly welcomed by Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, and Mr. Afolabi Olorunfemi Asorogbayi, a board member of the Ekiti State Tourism Board to the Bureau of Tourism Development office . Mrs. Adeola Omotayo, Commissioner for Trade, Investment, Industry, and Cooperative was accompanied by Mr. Dele Ogunsemoyin, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry; and Mr. Obisesan, a director within the ministry.
The delegation’s visit was centered on exploring opportunities for collaboration to boost investment and tourism in Ekiti State. Ambassador Ojo-Lanre presented the Ekiti State Tourism Map, showcasing the state’s vast tourism potential, including its natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and unique attractions.
The Chinese delegation expressed their interest in exploring Ekiti’s attractions further and highlighted potential investment projects. They proposed initiatives that align with the state’s vision for economic growth and development.
As part of their cultural immersion, the visitors were treated to a traditional meal of Ekiti Pounded Yam at Tay Tay Buka in Ado Ekiti. The meal was complemented by freshly tapped palm wine, which the delegation enthusiastically enjoyed. They expressed delight in the rich flavors of woroworo soup, describing it as a culinary delight.
The Chinese delegation commended the efforts of Mrs. Adeola Omotayo for facilitating global investment opportunities for Ekiti State. They also lauded Ambassador Ojo-Lanre and Mr. Afolabi Olorunfemi for their exceptional hospitality, which left a lasting impression.
In their remarks, the delegation praised Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for his commitment to making Ekiti a global investment destination. They expressed optimism about collaborating with the state and pledged to establish a yam processing plant in Ekiti as part of their investment plans.
This visit marks a significant step toward enhancing Ekiti’s global visibility and attracting sustainable investments to the state.