In a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing tourism and strengthening community involvement, Ekiti State will hold a public engagement session focused on its tourism policy on Tuesday, 19th November 2024. This event underscores Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development within the tourism sector.
Hosted by the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, the session seeks to unite stakeholders, community members, and industry experts in discussions surrounding the tourism policy framework. Participants will have the opportunity to provide feedback and contribute to a shared vision for tourism’s pivotal role in Ekiti’s economic growth.
The tourism sector in Ekiti State is poised for significant expansion, with the potential to generate jobs, stimulate local businesses, and preserve the state’s rich cultural heritage. With its natural attractions, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural events, Ekiti is well-positioned to attract both domestic and international visitors. However, as the industry continues to grow, a comprehensive tourism policy is essential for effective resource management, cultural heritage protection, and the establishment of guidelines for sustainable tourism development.
Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq., Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism, emphasized the importance of a robust tourism policy. He stated that such a policy serves as a strategic roadmap, directing the sustainable growth of the industry. It defines key objectives, establishes benchmarks, and aligns resources to support tourism’s expansion while safeguarding local heritage.
For Ekiti State, this tourism policy will focus on:
1. **Promoting Sustainable Development:** The policy will advocate for eco-friendly practices that protect Ekiti’s natural attractions, cultural sites, and biodiversity for future generations.
2. **Boosting Economic Growth and Job Creation:** By establishing clear objectives and standards, the policy will attract investments in tourism infrastructure, leading to job creation, increased revenue for local businesses, and improved tourism-related services.
3. **Enhancing Local and International Tourism Appeal:** By identifying key development areas and setting high standards, the policy aims to elevate Ekiti’s status as a sought-after tourism destination, encouraging longer visits from tourists.
4. **Safeguarding Cultural Heritage and Promoting Unity:** The tourism policy will prioritize cultural preservation, ensuring that Ekiti’s heritage is responsibly celebrated and shared, fostering a sense of unity and pride among residents.
Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq., further highlighted the necessity of public engagement in tourism policy development. He stated that public involvement is crucial for effective policymaking. The decision to host this public forum reflects Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s commitment to transparency, inclusion, and shared responsibility. By engaging the community in discussions, the Bureau of Tourism Development aims to create a policy that is comprehensive and reflective of the community’s needs and aspirations.
The public engagement session is designed to gather diverse perspectives, allowing policymakers to understand the views and requirements of various stakeholders, including community leaders, local business owners, cultural custodians, and tourism operators.
Enhancing policy effectiveness is key—when community members feel their opinions are valued, there is a heightened likelihood of public support for the policy’s implementation, which is critical for its long-term success.
The event promotes transparency and accountability, creating an open platform where residents can voice concerns, ask questions, and better understand the policy’s goals and expected outcomes. Additionally, involving the public in policy development fosters a sense of ownership among residents, who will ultimately become ambassadors of Ekiti’s tourism vision.
The session will take place on Tuesday at the Lady Jibowu Centre, Governor’s House, Ado Ekiti, from 10 AM to 5 PM. All interested parties, including tourism operators, community members, business owners, and media representatives, are warmly invited to participate. The event will feature presentations, interactive breakout discussions, and a Q&A session, ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping the future of Ekiti’s tourism landscape.
The Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development is dedicated to positioning Ekiti as a premier tourism destination in Nigeria through policy development, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement. By collaborating with various stakeholders, the Bureau aims to foster an inclusive and sustainable tourism industry that enhances both economic vitality and the quality of life for all residents.
This engagement marks a pivotal chapter in Ekiti’s tourism journey, bringing together residents and leaders to ensure a bright, inclusive, and sustainable future for the state’s tourism sector.
