Oyo taps private sector to drive tourism, economic expansion

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with private investors to advance its tourism and economic growth agenda under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde.

Prince Dotun Oyelade gave the assurance during an official visit to the Royal Entertainment Cruise Resort, Eleyele, in Ibadan, one of the tourist, marine leisure facility developed, showcasing the growing potential of tourism-driven investment in the state.

The facility features a range of attractions, including a paintball arena, children’s play area, snooker hall, and a well-equipped boat cruise dock with multiple boats and speedboats, alongside a scenic relaxation area designed to offer visitors a full leisure experience.

Speaking during the visit, Prince Dotun Oyelade commended the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Sanmi Bamidele, for his creativity and investment drive, describing the project as one that perfectly aligns with Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision to make tourism a key part of Oyo State’s economy.

“We are delighted to see this kind of forward-thinking investment here in Oyo State. Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration believes that tourism can create jobs, boost local economies, and showcase Oyo as a leading destination for culture and leisure in Nigeria,” he said.

He noted that the facility represents a major private-sector contribution to the state’s tourism growth, adding that similar water-based leisure investments are rare in the South-West outside Lagos.

According to him, the Ministry will work closely with the facility to promote awareness across all media platforms and attract both local and international visitors.

Prince Oyelade assured that the government would continue to support private projects that align with its development goals, describing the facility as a shining example of how innovation and entrepreneurship can drive local growth.

In his response, the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Sanmi Bamidele, thanked the state government for its encouragement and support. He said the inspiration behind the project came from the government’s renewed focus on tourism as a tool for economic growth.

“The government cannot do it alone. What we are doing here supports Governor Makinde’s vision to increase the state’s revenue through tourism,” he said.

“People now come from all over Nigeria and even from Europe to experience what we’ve built here. Ibadan is fast transforming from the city of brown roofs into a marine destination, and we’re proud to be part of that change.”

He added that the facility has created many direct and indirect jobs for residents of Eleyele and nearby communities while also beautifying the area. He appreciated the Governor’s earlier promise to fix the access road to make the site more accessible for visitors.

The Commissioner was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, and other directors from the Ministry.

The visit ended with a fun tour of the facility, where the team participated in several activities, including a paintball session and a boat cruise.

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