Gani Adams Urges Southwest Governors To Boost Economy Through Tourism.
The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has called on Southwest governors to harness the region’s rich tourism potential to drive economic growth. Speaking at the 2025 Olumo Festival in Abeokuta, Adams emphasised that tourism could significantly enhance Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) if properly developed. He urged both federal and state governments to invest in cultural and historical destinations to attract foreign visitors and create wealth.
Adams highlighted the global success of countries like Thailand, which welcomes 40 million tourists annually, and Britain, with 35 million visitors, as models for Nigeria to emulate. He noted that tourism, unlike finite mineral resources, is a renewable economic asset that can generate substantial foreign currency if well-packaged. The Olumo Festival, part of the broader Lisabi Festival, is estimated to contribute approximately N10 billion to the economy through direct and indirect revenue, underscoring the potential of cultural events to boost local businesses.
The Aare Ona Kakanfo stressed that insecurity remains a significant barrier to tourism growth, urging governments to improve safety measures and reorient youths towards cultural engagement. He praised the Ogun State government’s commitment to upgrading Olumo Rock, a key tourist site, with plans to refurbish its lifts to elevate its status as a premier destination. Adams also called for sustained support from the Egba community to preserve the festival’s legacy and promote Yoruba cultural identity globally.
Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, echoed Adams’ sentiments, expressing gratitude to Governor Dapo Abiodun for his efforts to enhance Olumo Rock’s appeal. The festival, which celebrates the heroic legacy of Lisabi Akala, continues to draw visitors, fostering unity and economic activity in the region. Adams urged all stakeholders to collaborate in positioning Nigeria’s tourism sector as a global competitor, capable of transforming the nation’s economic landscape.
