Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, disclosed that tourism will now play a central role in the state’s development strategy.
Speaking at the International Tourism Summit 2025 in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, the Governor launched a new initiative called the Tourism Reset Agenda, a blueprint to attract investment, boost local jobs, and promote heritage as an engine for economic growth.
Governor Makinde said the new agenda includes five executive-level commitments, starting with placing the Ministry of Culture and Tourism directly under his supervision. This, he said, will fast-track project approvals and eliminate red tape.
He also addressed delays on the Agodi Gardens project, blaming institutional bottlenecks but assuring that work would soon begin. The Oyo State Governor said his administration is set to turn Oyo State’s cultural and natural heritage into real economic capital that benefits future generations.
The three-day summit themed “Invest in Heritage, Leave a Legacy” featured site tours, pitch presentations, and panel discussions aimed at repositioning Oyo as a major tourism destination.