In a strategic move to deepen inter-state cultural collaboration and promote heritage tourism, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre Esq, paid a courtesy visit to the revered Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, at his palace on Arigidi Close, Bodija, Ibadan.Oyo State
The visit, which was both symbolic and strategic, further reinforces the growing synergy between Ekiti and Oyo States in advancing cultural tourism, heritage preservation, and regional unity within the South-West.
Barrister Ojo-Lanre, while addressing the monarch, warmly congratulated Kabiyesi on his ascension to the exalted throne of Olubadan, describing him as a man of unimpeachable integrity, tenacity of purpose, and uncommon commitment to fairness, equity, and justice.
In an emotionally resonant tribute, the DG extolled the Olubadan as a compassionate and large-hearted monarch, whose life has been dedicated to nurturing and guiding young people irrespective of their ethnic, social, or geographical backgrounds.
“Kabiyesi is not just a monarch; he is a father to many across boundaries. His heart accommodates all. He has been a pillar of support in my journey long before public office beckoned,” Ojo-Lanre stated.
Recalling his days as Chairman of the Oyo State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Barrister Ojo-Lanre noted that Oba Ladoja stood firmly by him during critical moments.
“I can never forget Kabiyesi’s unwavering support during my tenure as NUJ Chairman in Oyo State. He was there then, and he has remained there for me till today. Such loyalty and fatherly guidance cannot be repaid but must be honored. I will never forsake the Ladoja family,” he affirmed.
In a moment that underscored deep personal bonds, the DG revealed that Kabiyesi had adopted him as a son long before his foray into electoral politics and eventual rise in public service.
Beyond the courtesies, Barrister Ojo-Lanre took the opportunity to robustly market Ekiti State’s iconic tourism assets to the monarch, with particular emphasis on the world-acclaimed Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, alongside the breathtaking Ipole-Iloro Waterfall and the mystic Abanijorin Rock of Wonders, Iyin Ekiti—all key pillars of the Visit Ekiti campaign.
The Olubadan, evidently impressed, made specific inquiries about the famous Gossy Water, noting with concern that it is no longer as readily available as it used to be. The discussion sparked nostalgic reflections on Ekiti’s rich natural endowments and heritage products.
In a significant endorsement, Kabiyesi expressed a strong desire to personally visit Ekiti State to experience its tourism treasures firsthand.
“I will come and see these wonders myself,” the Olubadan assured.
Responding, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, in his characteristic calm and dignified manner, publicly introduced Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre as a trusted friend and son to members of the Bodija Residents Association Executive who were present during the visit.
The monarch described Ojo-Lanre as a bridge-builder whose identity transcends geographical labels.
“Wale Ojo-Lanre is Ibadan by spirit and Ekiti by birth. He belongs to all of us,” Kabiyesi declared.
The Olubadan further commended the Director-General for his relentless efforts in repositioning Ekiti State as a tourism destination of note in accordance with the vision of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji through the Visit Ekiti initiative, which continues to gain national and international traction.
The meeting ended on a note of mutual respect, cultural pride, and renewed commitment to leveraging traditional institutions for sustainable tourism development.
