The Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, received commendation for his dedicated efforts towards tourism development in the state. Dr. Olawanle Akinboboye, the visionary behind the IPADA Initiative, highlighted Governor Oyebanji’s significant contributions, noting that Ekiti State is pioneering new dimensions in Nigerian tourism.
Dr. Akinboboye emphasized that Governor Oyebanji has given Ekiti a distinct global tourism identity by being the first Nigerian governor to engage with UN Tourism for the development of a Tourism Master Plan. He also pointed out that this collaboration with a state, rather than a country or region, is a historic first for UN Tourism.
The Ipada Initiative briefing took place at the Lacampagne Tropicana Beach Resort, Ibeju Lekki, Lagos, on Monday, September 2, 2024. The event was attended by the Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade John, as well as Permanent Secretaries, Commissioners, Directors General, CEOs of Tourism Boards, and various stakeholders from the tourism sector.
The Ipada Initiative, which aims to reconnect Africans in the diaspora with their roots and commemorate the resilience of Africans who were forcibly enslaved, was the main focus of the briefing. The initiative seeks to facilitate the return of descendants to their ancestral homes, fostering cultural reconnection and healing.
Dr. Akinboboye opened the briefing by highlighting the initiative’s importance in promoting cultural heritage and unity among Africans worldwide. He outlined planned activities, including cultural festivals, educational programs, and heritage tours, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of local communities, government agencies, and international partners to ensure the initiative’s success.
Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, delivered a compelling speech on Ekiti State’s tourism potential. He detailed how the state, with its rich natural beauty and cultural heritage, is committed to contributing to the Ipada Initiative. Ambassador Ojo-Lanre stressed that Ekiti State’s involvement would set a leading example in utilizing tourism for cultural reconnection and economic growth.
Bolaji Mustapha, the new President of the National Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), praised Dr. Akinboboye’s ongoing efforts to advance tourism development in Nigeria. She expressed eagerness for collaboration on the Ipada Initiative, highlighting the association’s support.
Otunba Abiodun Ojo, Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Tourism in Osun State, reiterated Governor Ademola Jackson Adeleke’s support for the initiative. He emphasized Osun State’s readiness to actively participate and contribute to its success.
Representatives from Lagos, Ogun, and Kano States also voiced their support for the Ipada Initiative. The CEO of the Kano State Tourism Board, representatives from the Ogun State Commissioner of Tourism, and Lagos State delegates all endorsed the initiative, underscoring their commitment to a unified approach in promoting cultural heritage and strengthening ties with the African diaspora.
The briefing included updates on preparations for the return of African descendants, including arrangements for accommodation, cultural orientation, and participation in local community events to provide an authentic heritage experience.
The event concluded with an interactive session where delegates and stakeholders discussed the initiative’s potential impacts on local communities and the broader African continent. A strong sense of unity and commitment to the initiative’s objectives was evident.
In closing, the Minister of Tourism expressed gratitude to all attendees for their support and reiterated the Federal government’s commitment to the Ipada Initiative, marking it as a new chapter in African diaspora relations.
The briefing ended with a call for continued collaboration and partnership to ensure the initiative’s success, leaving attendees anticipating the future activities of this historic project.
