August 13, 2024.
By Adedoja Adesoji
The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has launched a major initiative to upgrade to revitalize Osun State’s tourist attractions, prioritizing the iconic Erin Ijesha Waterfalls.
This move aims to enhance the state’s tourism sector and promote Yoruba cultural heritage.
State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, revealed this move in response to a recent viral video highlighting the current state of Erin Ijesha Waterfalls. He emphasized that this upgrade is a significant step after years of neglect by previous administrations.
The upgrade plan encompasses various sites, including the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, Owala Inland Beach Resort, Sango Timi Shrine, Ayunkunnugba Waterfalls, and other cultural sites across the state.
Governor Ademola Adeleke has instructed the swift advancement of the Erin Ijesha Waterfalls project, which involves forming a tripartite committee to oversee the site’s management. This committee will include representatives from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Ministry of Information and Public Enlightenment, and leaders from the Erin Ijesha community.
The current management of Erin Ijesha Waterfalls is being handled by the local community to enhance local involvement and support for the tourism sector.
A meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 14, 2024, to further discuss the maintenance and development strategies for the site. The Governor’s directive aims to create a plan that benefits all stakeholders and fulfills the community’s and tourism sector’s needs.
Commissioner Alimi affirmed that the Osun State Government, under Governor Adeleke, is dedicated to advancing its tourism agenda, which includes fostering public-private partnerships. The government remains committed to revitalizing its cultural and tourist sites as a key part of its development strategy.
This initiative demonstrates Governor Adeleke’s dedication to advancing Osun State’s tourism agenda, promoting economic growth, and preserving cultural heritage.