Akwaaba 2026: Sanwo-Olu’s wife hails Ekiti’s agro-tourism model, economic repositioning

The Wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has lauded Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji of Ekiti State for his administration’s innovative approach to tourism, describing the state’s presentation at the 22nd Akwaaba African Travel Market 2026 as both impressive and purpose-driven.

During her visit to the Ekiti State stand at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, on Sunday, the First Lady commended the state for successfully pivoting its tourism strategy.

She noted that the administration had effectively moved beyond mere sightseeing to integrating tourism with economic empowerment, agricultural enterprise, and sustainable investment.

Dr Sanwo-Olu further commended the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq., for his consistent efforts in marketing Ekiti as a premier destination for both leisure and business.

In his briefing to the First Lady, Ojo-Lanre explained that Ekiti’s participation in the travel market was anchored on Governor Oyebanji’s Agro-Tourism Development Initiative.

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He noted that the exhibition was designed as a miniature representation of the state’s emerging economy, showcasing the seamless journey from aviation and agriculture to hospitality and investment.

According to Ojo-Lanre, the initiative is structured around five strategic pillars:

Fly Ekiti: Showcasing the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport as a gateway for commerce.

Farm Ekiti: Highlighting the state’s agricultural revolution, including the Cassava and Young Farmers initiatives.

Taste Ekiti: Presenting the “Farm-to-Factory” value chain with Made-in-Ekiti organic food products.

Stay and Explore Ekiti: Promoting key heritage sites like Arinta Waterfalls and Ikogosi Warm Springs.

Invest in Ekiti: Partnering with the Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (EKDIPA) to facilitate direct investment.

“The philosophy behind the exhibition is that tourism must not exist in isolation,” Ojo-Lanre said. “When you fly into Ekiti, you should see our farms. When you see our farms, you should experience how our produce moves from farm to factory.

“You should taste what Ekiti produces, stay in Ekiti, explore our waterfalls, hills, resorts, religious and cultural heritage—and, ultimately, see reasons to invest in Ekiti.”

Also speaking at the event, the founder of the Akwaaba African Travel Market, Mr Ikechi Uko, praised Ekiti State for consistently maintaining a leading position in the sector through innovation and visibility.

He specifically acknowledged the passion and proactive support Governor Oyebanji has continued to extend to the Bureau of Tourism Development, ensuring the state remains a formidable player in the African tourism landscape.