Oyebanji vows to transform Ekiti into a major tourist destination

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Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has promised to deploy the instrument of office to make Ekiti a major hub for cultural tourism and the creative economy that will transform the lives of the productive population in Nigeria and Africa.

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Oyebanji also urged Ekiti youths to deploy their talents and creative endowments as instruments for creating jobs, businesses and wealth that could accelerate economic development.

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The governor, represented by the Deputy Governor, Mrs Monisade Afuye, spoke in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday while flagging off the 2026 edition of the Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture, EKIFEST, at Fajuyi Pavilion, Ado Ekiti, with the theme, “Continuity, The Pathway to Ensuring Prosperity.”

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EKIFEST 2026, holding from August 11 to 15 in the state capital, is expected to attract culture and tourism enthusiasts as well as creative entrepreneurs to the state.

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The governor stressed that creativity and talent development were platforms for building businesses and creating jobs for the teeming productive population amid the current economic challenges.

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

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“We are building infrastructure, strengthening institutions, supporting our creative talents, expanding opportunities for young entrepreneurs and creating an environment where culture contributes meaningfully to our economy.”

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Oyebanji promised consistent government support for local artists, art exhibitors and those involved in creative businesses through patronage that could guarantee their survival and contribution to economic growth.

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While stressing the significance of EKIFEST to youth development, Oyebanji said, “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.

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“As we celebrate EKIFEST, let us remember that the true measure of any society is not only in its roads and buildings, but also in how faithfully it preserves its heritage and how boldly it empowers its people.”

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He said the 2026 EKIFEST would help fortify the state’s economy, advance its investments, deepen its unity and create opportunities for youths and those operating in the creative sector.

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The Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Prof. Rasak Bakare, hailed Oyebanji for investing heavily in arts and culture, describing EKIFEST as a celebration of Ekiti’s rich cultural heritage and traditions, which he said were unique across the country.

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Bakare, who said culture was far more than mere entertainment, described it as a veritable opportunity to strengthen social cohesion, create hospitality and promote love and social order among people of diverse interests and ethnic backgrounds.

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The commissioner said, “This year’s EKIFEST will feature a cultural parade, command performances, traditional competitions and talent showcases that identify the cultural diversity of Ekiti people. The Biodun Oyebanji-led government is aware of the fact that culture can only be preserved when practised and passed on to coming generations.

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“Under Oyebanji’s government, one of the fastest-growing sectors generating employment and attracting investments is arts and culture.”

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Popular Yoruba movie star, Dele Odule, and his cultural troupe performed at the opening event.

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