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The Ekiti State Government, in partnership with Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), has begun moves to develop the Iyin Kingdom into a model destination for eco-tourism and cultural heritage in Nigeria.
This was part of the resolutions reached at a strategic meeting between the management of YABATECH and officials of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism in Ado-Ekiti within the week.
Leading the YABATECH delegation, Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Funso Isolaowa Afolabi, said the visit was to explore areas of collaboration that would enhance tourism growth and capacity building in the state.
He said the partnership would focus on research, training, and sustainable site development that could transform Iyin Kingdom into a major tourism hub.
Afolabi noted, “Tourism is a key driver of cultural preservation and economic development. What we are doing is to bring the expertise of YABATECH to support Ekiti’s tourism vision and help communities like Iyin unlock their full potential.”
Also speaking, the Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Abdul, described Iyin Kingdom as one of Nigeria’s hidden tourism treasures, blessed with natural landscapes such as the Aba Nijorin Hills, lush valleys, and cultural heritage sites that can attract both local and international visitors.
Dr. Abdul said, “Iyin Kingdom represents the perfect blend of nature and culture. With the support of the Ekiti State Government, YABATECH will provide technical and academic assistance to ensure that the development of Iyin’s tourism assets is sustainable.”
He added that the collaboration would also focus on training local tour guides, developing eco-friendly visitor facilities, and promoting youth participation in tourism enterprises.
In his remarks, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism, Ambassador Wale Ojo, said the state government was committed to repositioning tourism as a key economic driver.
Ojo said Iyin Kingdom had been identified as a pilot community for the state’s tourism master plan, which seeks to promote natural and cultural attractions across Ekiti.
“Our plan is to make Iyin a model for community-based tourism,” he said.
“We are creating a master plan that links its hills, streams, and festivals to create jobs and attract investment. With YABATECH’s involvement, we are sure of a strong technical foundation.”
He disclosed that the government was already engaging investors and donor agencies to support infrastructure development in the area, including road access, accommodation facilities, and cultural centers.
The Head of the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management, YABATECH, Dr. Adedayo Toyin, emphasised the importance of proper planning and community involvement in tourism promotion.
She said, “For any tourism project to succeed, it must involve the people. Iyin Kingdom is rich in culture and heritage, but the festivals and attractions must be well-coordinated, packaged, and marketed to generate year-round interest.”
Dr. Toyin also called for the inclusion of tourism education in school curricula to raise awareness among young people about opportunities in the sector.
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mr. Aruwa Imeh, said environmental planning, beautification, and waste management were essential for sustainable tourism.
Imeh proposed the establishment of an Ekiti State Tourism Trust Fund to attract private sector support for the development and maintenance of tourism sites such as Iyin’s Aba Nijorin Hills and Ikogosi Warm Springs.
He said, “Tourism cannot thrive without proper infrastructure. We must ensure that our environment, access roads, and public spaces are attractive and safe for visitors.”
Stakeholders at the meeting expressed optimism that the collaboration would serve as a national model for sustainable tourism development, linking education, community empowerment, and cultural preservation.
