By Our Correspondent
National News – Governor Seyi Makinde has declared that Oyo State is on course to become the tourism capital of South-West Nigeria through strategic infrastructure, improved security and long-term development policies.
He made the statement on Wednesday at the International Tourism Summit Oyo State 2026 held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
Makinde said his administration had introduced policies and economic frameworks designed to attract investors, boost tourism activities and position the state among Nigeria’s leading travel destinations.
According to him, ongoing road projects, improved transportation networks and renewed tourism assets would strengthen economic growth and increase visitor traffic across the state.
The governor explained that continuity in governance remained essential for sustainable tourism development.
He noted that investors often worry about whether projects and agreements would survive beyond a single administration, adding that his government was focused on building institutions that would outlive political transitions.
Makinde pointed to the ongoing 110-kilometre Circular Road project as an example of delayed development caused by lack of policy continuity in previous administrations.
He also revealed that the state had created a 25-year tourism master plan committee to coordinate long-term tourism growth and investment opportunities.
Speaking on infrastructure, the governor said travellers could drive nearly 180 kilometres on state roads from the Moniya train station without encountering potholes.
He added that the government had signed a 15-year concession agreement with SystemSpecs for the management of Bower’s Tower to improve tourism operations.
Former Ekiti State governor Kayode Fayemi commended Makinde for investing in infrastructure and regional tourism integration.
Fayemi also called for the creation of a South-West Tourism Circuit to connect tourist attractions across the region.
Filmmaker Kunle Afolayan and tourism stakeholders praised the administration for improving road infrastructure and promoting Oyo State’s cultural heritage.
