The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting communities seeking to develop tourism attractions as part of efforts to boost economic growth and job creation.
Speaking at the 2026 World Tourism Day celebration held at Arinta Waterfall in Ipole-Iloro, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Wale Ojo-Lanre, said tourism remains a key priority of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration.
The event, themed “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” highlighted the economic potential of tourism and the role of technology in promoting destinations.
Ojo-Lanre said the government was prepared to collaborate with communities willing to transform their tourism assets into viable economic ventures.
He described Arinta Waterfall as one of Nigeria’s most remarkable natural attractions, noting its unique seven-tier waterfall structure.
The tourism chief also encouraged investors to explore opportunities in the sector, citing Ekiti’s growing population and the presence of seven universities as factors that could drive demand for tourism services.
The Olupole of Ipole-Iloro Kingdom, Oba Ezekiel Oladele, called for increased investment and infrastructure development around the waterfall, describing it as a potential leading ecotourism destination in Nigeria.
The monarch urged stakeholders to leverage artificial intelligence, digital platforms and social media to promote the site while preserving its environmental and cultural heritage.
