The ekiti-gov-warns-against-tinubu-criticism/” title=”Gov Oyebanji Urges … Residents to Stand United, Cautions Against Criticizing Tinubu”>federal government has urged Nigerian entrepreneurs to increase their investments in the tourism sector, highlighting the potential to empower the nation’s youth and secure a prosperous future.
Mr. Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of Youth Development, emphasized that tourism growth, employment generation, and youth empowerment are key priorities of the current administration.
He made these remarks in Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, during the official inauguration of ‘Visit Ekiti,’ a tourism initiative aimed at revitalizing the state’s cultural and economic landscape.
Speaking through his representative, Dr. Adedamola Ogunlola, the minister described the launch as a significant step toward promoting Ekiti’s vibrant cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and rich historical legacy to audiences across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.
“For tourism to flourish, the passion, ingenuity, and creativity of our young people must be central to the effort. This vision aligns seamlessly with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development’s mission. Our youth are not only guardians of our traditions but also innovators who can transform cultural assets into economic opportunities,” the minister explained.
He further highlighted the government’s Youth in Creative Economy Project, designed to nurture talents in sectors such as film, fashion, music, and cultural enterprises, ensuring that Nigeria’s heritage evolves into both artistic expression and viable industries.
The minister affirmed that the federal government is committed to creating an environment where Nigerian youth are active contributors and architects of progress, rather than mere recipients of development programs.
“This approach resonates deeply with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative, which aims to build a Nigeria where every citizen, especially young people, can access opportunities for advancement, creativity, and economic success.
“Visit Ekiti exemplifies these goals by integrating cultural heritage and entrepreneurship into a broader narrative of hope, resilience, and renewal. The Ministry of Youth Development looks forward to collaborating with Visit Ekiti to generate tangible benefits for our youth,” he added.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Ayodeji Ogunro, Lead and Creative Director of Visit Ekiti Limited, explained that the project was established to promote arts, culture, and tourism within Ekiti State.
>”Visit Ekiti is not just a tourism campaign; it represents a comprehensive strategy for economic revitalization. It will serve as a catalyst for job creation, community empowerment, and attracting investments in premium resorts and eco-tourism initiatives.
“To investors and partners, we present a stable, investment-friendly environment supported by a government dedicated to your success.
“To the people of Ekiti, we invite you to be ambassadors of our state’s hospitality. This vision belongs to all of us. The time to act is now. Together, we can establish Ekiti as Nigeria’s foremost tourist destination,” Ogunro concluded.