Ogun State Government says he remains committed to making tourism a key driver of inclusive growth and economic diversification being part of efforts to reposition the State as Nigeria’s leading destination for cultural and creative tourism.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, pledged this commitment at the 48th edition of World Tourism Day held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, themed:  “Tourism for Sustainable Transformation.”

According to the Governor, his administration has taken bold steps to promote tourism beyond physical infrastructure, focusing strongly on inclusivity and empowerment. 

He further highlighted the government’s training and skill acquisition programmes for youths and women in tourism-related ventures, particularly Adire production, which, according to him, has gained international recognition on global fashion runways.

“Our creative economy is being nurtured to tell the Ogun story in ways that resonate locally and internationally,” he said.

Governor Abiodun further disclosed that his administration has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Government to establish the Renewed Hope Cultural Village. The project, he explained, will preserve historical sites, empower young creatives, and position Ogun State as a hub for cultural tourism.

Delivering the United Nations Secretary-General’s message at the event, the State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi, emphasized that tourism remains a powerful engine of opportunity, capable of creating jobs, strengthening human connections, and driving inclusive change.

“Tourism must be inclusive, equitable, and green if it is to truly fulfill its promise of sustainable transformation,” he stressed.

However in his own remarks, Fagbayi reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to advancing tourism through cultural heritage promotion, community-based tourism initiatives, and landmark events such as the recently concluded Gateway Games. 

He also noted that investments in infrastructure, including access roads, have boosted tourist inflow to Abeokuta and other parts of the State.

“The transformation of the iconic Olumo Rock Tourist Centre remains one of the most remarkable achievements of the present administration,”.

He noted that the ongoing renovations have enhanced tourist experiences and reinforced Ogun’s place as Nigeria’s true tourism hub.

He, however, urged stakeholders to partner with the government in making tourism truly sustainable, in line with the theme of this year’s World Tourism Day.

 “All hands must be on deck to create jobs and improve the living standards of our people through tourism,” Fagbayi said.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Culture and Tourism, Prince Adebola Basibo-Odoru, emphasized the State’s commitment to aligning its tourism agenda with sustainability principles.

 These, according to him, include promoting eco-friendly practices, supporting community-driven initiatives, and investing in cultural preservation and innovation.

He assured that the government would continue to work closely with stakeholders to ensure that tourism remains a catalyst for inclusive and enduring growth across Ogun State.