EKITI State, known for its rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions, has taken a significant step forward in harnessing the power of tourism to enhance its arts and culture.
The Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, created by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has been instrumental in this endeavour, showcasing the state’s cultural assets at the recently held EKIFEST 24.
EKIFEST 24 is an annual event organised by the Ekiti State Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, which celebrates the vibrant cultural and artistic landscape of the state. This year, the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, led by Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, took on the challenge of adding value to the event, leveraging its expertise and resources to promote Ekiti’s tourism assets.
One of the key strategies employed by the Bureau was to create unprecedented media awareness for EKIFEST 24. By actively promoting the event and highlighting its cultural significance, the Bureau was able to attract a wider audience, both within Ekiti and beyond. This increased visibility not only drew more visitors to the event but also helped to showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage to a broader audience.
The Bureau’s participation at EKIFEST 24 took various forms. They secured a stand at the pavilion, where they displayed information materials on all the tourism sites in Ekiti. This served as a platform to educate visitors about the diverse array of cultural and natural attractions the state has to offer.
To further enhance the experience, the Bureau hosted the traditional Ayo Olopon event, a captivating cultural display that showcases the state’s heritage. Additionally, they invited renowned Nollywood actors Dele Odule and Akin Falana to add star power and appeal to the event.
One of the standout achievements of the Bureau was its ability to attract over 250 tourists from outside Ekiti to the festival. By organising packaged tours to iconic destinations such as Ikogosi Resort, Arinta Waterfall, and Erin Sacred Fishes Stream, the Bureau provided visitors with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Ekiti’s natural and cultural wonders.
To further elevate the experience, the Bureau employed a branded luxury Lincoln Continental Limousine to transport the tourists, adding an element of exclusivity and luxury to the proceedings. This not only enhanced the visitors’ experience but also showcased Ekiti’s commitment to providing high-quality tourism services.
The Bureau also highlighted the state’s cultural richness by hosting performances by renowned cultural groups, such as Ewa Asa and Enudunjuyo. These captivating displays of traditional dance, music, and artistry left a lasting impression on the attendees, further cementing Ekiti’s reputation as a hub of cultural excellence.
The Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development’s involvement in EKIFEST 24 exemplifies how tourism can add significant value to the arts and culture of a region. By strategically leveraging its resources and expertise, the Bureau was able to amplify the event’s reach, attract a larger audience, and provide visitors with a truly immersive and memorable experience.
This case study serves as a testament to the power of collaboration between tourism and cultural institutions. By working in tandem, they can create synergies that not only promote the state’s artistic and cultural heritage but also contribute to its economic development through increased tourism activities.
As Ekiti State continues to position itself as a premier tourism and cultural destination, the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development’s involvement in initiatives like EKIFEST 24 will undoubtedly play a crucial role in realizing this vision and showcasing the state’s rich tapestry of arts and culture to the world.
Eighteen-Eleven Media