Oyebanji pledges to make Ekiti tourism hub

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has pledged to utilize his office's influence to establish Ekiti as a premier destination for cultural tourism and a significant hub for the creative economy, aiming to uplift the livelihoods of productive populations across Nigeria and Africa.

Speaking at the flag-off of the 2026 Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture (EKIFEST) in Ado Ekiti, Oyebanji, represented by Deputy Governor Mrs. Monisade Afuye, urged the state's youth to harness their talents and creative abilities as tools for generating employment, building businesses, and accelerating economic development. The festival, themed "Continuity, The Pathway to Ensuring Prosperity," is scheduled to run from August 11 to 15 and is expected to draw cultural enthusiasts and creative entrepreneurs to the state.

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Our vision is clear, we want Ekiti to become Nigeria’s foremost destination for cultural tourism and one of Africa’s leading creative hubs.

"Our vision is clear, we want Ekiti to become Nigeria’s foremost destination for cultural tourism and one of Africa’s leading creative hubs," Oyebanji stated. He outlined the government's strategy, which includes building infrastructure, strengthening institutions, supporting creative talents, expanding opportunities for young entrepreneurs, and fostering an environment where culture significantly contributes to the economy. The governor promised sustained government support for local artists and creative businesses through patronage.

Oyebanji emphasized the festival's role in youth development, declaring, "To our young people, this festival belongs to you. Your creativity is your wealth. Your ideas can create jobs. Your talents can build businesses. Your imagination can transform communities. The creative economy is no longer the future, it is already here." He added that the true measure of a society lies not only in its physical development but also in its preservation of heritage and empowerment of its people. The 2026 EKIFEST is anticipated to bolster the state's economy, enhance investments, deepen unity, and create opportunities within the creative sector.

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To our young people, this festival belongs to you. Your creativity is your wealth. Your ideas can create jobs. Your talents can build businesses. Your imagination can transform communities. The creative economy is no longer the future, it is already here.