By Osho Afolabi
In the verdant landscapes of Ekiti State, a visionary leader has emerged, dedicated to unlocking the full potential of sustainable tourism while empowering local communities. Michael Olufemi Peculiar Ekiran, hailing from Iyin Ekiti, Araromi Local Council Development Area, stands as a beacon of inspiration and innovation, honoured as one of Nigeria’s Top 100 Tourism Personalities in 2024.
The induction ceremony, held at the esteemed National Museum in Onikan, Lagos, under the auspices of ATQ Magazine, marks a milestone in Michael’s journey, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria’s tourism sector.
A trailblazer in every sense, Michael’s journey is characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep commitment to community impact. Armed with a diverse skill set and a passion for sustainable development, he has dedicated over five years to championing sustainable tourism initiatives across Ekiti State.
Michael’s academic pedigree, including certifications from the International Business Management Institute in Berlin and the Project Management Institute in Brooklyn, underscores his commitment to professional excellence. As a chartered marketer and associate member of esteemed organizations such as the National Institute of Marketing Nigeria and the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators, he brings a wealth of expertise to his endeavours.
Driven by a profound belief in the power of sustainable development goals (SDGs) to drive positive change, Michael embarked on a transformative journey in 2016 as a pioneer trainer for the Google Digital Skills for Africa Program. His exceptional performance led to his selection and sponsorship to the Google Digital Skills Trainers Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 2018, where he further honed his skills as a digital advocate.
In 2017, Michael seized the opportunity to merge his passion for sustainable tourism with digital innovation, founding the Discover Ekiti Tourism Club. This groundbreaking initiative aimed to project, promote, and showcase Ekiti State as a premier destination for tourism adventures while fostering community-based tourism development.
Under Michael’s leadership, the Discover Ekiti initiative has achieved remarkable milestones, including the organization of the first-ever “Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari” event in 2019. This outdoor mountaineering tourism adventure captured the imagination of tourists worldwide, attracting over 150 participants from diverse corners of the globe.
Subsequent editions of the Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari have continued to captivate audiences, with the recent event in April 2023 drawing over 250 tourists and adventurers to explore the natural wonders of Ekiti’s landscape.
Michael’s tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning him numerous accolades and awards for his contributions to sustainable tourism and community development in Ekiti State. From state medals to international recognition, his impact resonates far and wide, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.
As Michael continues to spearhead initiatives that harness the transformative power of sustainable tourism, he remains committed to his vision of creating a brighter, more prosperous future for Ekiti’s communities. Through his exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication, Michael Olufemi Peculiar Ekiran stands as a true beacon of hope and inspiration, illuminating the path toward a sustainable and thriving tourism sector in Nigeria.