Governor ‘Seyi Makinde has declared that Oyo State is on course to become the tourism capital of South-West Nigeria, citing massive investments in infrastructure, security and long-term development policies aimed at boosting the sector.
Speaking on Wednesday at the International Tourism Summit Oyo State 2026 held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, the governor said his administration has laid strong foundations that would position the state as one of Nigeria’s leading tourism destinations.
The summit, themed “From Groundwork to Governance: Building Tourism That Endures,” brought together government officials, investors, tourism stakeholders and traditional rulers.
Makinde explained that the government’s focus goes beyond launching projects, stressing that the administration is building systems and structures capable of sustaining tourism growth long after his tenure.
According to him, improved road networks linking key towns and communities, enhanced security and ongoing revitalisation of tourist attractions are already opening up the state for greater tourism and investment opportunities.
He noted that visitors can now travel across major parts of the state on smooth roads without encountering potholes, highlighting routes connecting Moniya, Iseyin, Ogbomoso and Oyo as examples of the administration’s infrastructural achievements.
The governor acknowledged concerns often raised by investors about continuity after a change in government, insisting that his administration has institutionalised policies to ensure that agreements and projects remain protected regardless of leadership changes.
Makinde said the state has created a coordinated system where investments are backed by long-term plans rather than individual political interests, assuring investors that their risks would be significantly reduced.
He cited the ongoing 110-kilometre Circular Road project as an example of delayed development caused by policy discontinuity, noting that the project was conceived over two decades ago before work eventually commenced under his administration.
The governor also announced that Oyo State recently signed a 15-year concession agreement with System Specs Limited for the management of Bower’s Tower, describing it as part of efforts to strengthen tourism infrastructure and attract private investment.
He added that the government has established a 25-year Tourism Master Plan Committee and developed frameworks for tourism assets such as Eleyele Lake to ensure continuity and coordinated development.
Speaking further on succession and continuity, Makinde reiterated that while he would recommend a successor to the people of Oyo State, the final decision would rest with voters.
He maintained that competence, loyalty to the state and commitment to development — rather than political affiliation — would guide such recommendation.
According to him, his administration’s achievements have been possible because the government prioritises the development of Oyo State above party interests.
Makinde urged residents and traditional rulers to continue supporting the administration’s vision in order to sustain the state’s economic growth and tourism ambitions.
Former Governor of Ekiti State and former Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, who also spoke at the summit, praised Makinde’s infrastructural development across Oyo State and his commitment to tourism promotion.
Fayemi stressed the importance of continuity in governance, saying tourism development must be institutionalised and treated as a major economic driver rather than a collection of isolated projects.
He also proposed the creation of a South-West Tourism Circuit that would connect tourist attractions across the region and strengthen its international appeal.
Other speakers at the summit, including tourism investors, government officials and development experts, commended the state government for improving road access and creating an enabling environment for investment in tourism.
Among those present at the event were Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, top government officials, traditional rulers, captains of industry and key stakeholders in the tourism sector.
