Kwara State Governor Abdulraman  Abdulrazaq has said the goal of his administration is to make the state the leading tourist destination in the country. Governor Abdulrazaq said this in his welcome speech to members of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) for the 2024 annual General Meeting (AGM) in the state capital, Ilorin tagged ‘Kwara 2024’. He said the state has a clear goal of growing tourism through  encouraging the creative and hospitality sector, celebrating the rich cultural heritage, and presenting  viable recreational investment opportunities that support the diverse players within the sector.

The governor, who was represented by the state’s Commissioner for Communications, Mrs. Bola Olukoju, said: “We believe that by highlighting our cultural wealth and natural beauty as well as investing in critical facilities, we can create an inclusive and prosperous environment for all stakeholders.”

Speaking on the tourism endowment of the state, the governor highlighted  some of the tourist attractions in the  state which include: the Asa Dam; the Esie Museum, home to fascinating stone images discovered in the 17th century, believed to be human beings turned to stone; Sobi Hill, a historic site offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape; Okuta Ilorin, a significant landmark in the state’s capital; Owu Waterfall, the Patigi Beach, the Dada Pottery , the Sugar Film Factory, the Mungo Park Monument, and many other attractions.

Governor  Abdulrazaq  further said: “Our state is also home to vibrant cultural festivals that attract visitors from far and wide. These include the Gaani Festival in Okuta, Baruten Local Government, a celebration of our cultural heritage; the Awon Cultural Mass Marriage in Shao, a unique cultural event that highlights our traditions; and the Esie Museum Festival, celebrating the historic stone images housed at the museum. Beyond these, I am happy to inform you that every local government in the state is blessed with at least two tourist attraction sites. I believe you will visit some of them, and I have no doubt that you will be marveled by how blessed the state of harmony is.

“ To further boost tourism and hospitality, we have initiated several projects aimed at improving infrastructure and enhancing the visitor experience. Apart from those mentioned above, these include the construction of road works to Owu Waterfall, making this beautiful site more accessible to tourists, and the ongoing construction of a motel at Regatta, Patigi, to provide  comfortable accommodation for visitors. Furthermore, we sponsor various festivals across the state to attract more tourists.”

The Kwara State governor said his government understands the importance of tourism as a critical driver of economic growth and social development,  creates jobs, stimulates local economies, and fosters cultural exchange, hence the government is committed to harnessing the potential of tourism to uplift communities and build a more inclusive and prosperous society.

On security, he said the state makes visitors’ security  of paramount importance and has put in place robust measures to ensure a secure environment for all tourists. These measures include routine security checks and patrols, and collaborations with local communities to maintain peace and stability.

The governor said sustainable tourism was core in its tourism strategy hence it is dedicated to promoting eco-friendly practices and preserving natural resources for future generations, and would constantly exploring new ways to enhance the tourism experience through technology and creative solutions through the state’s Innovation Hub.

The state government, according to the governor, welcomes partnerships with investors in tourism describing it as are essential for the growth of the sector.