Ijebu Tourism Potential Stagnation: Food for Thought
The Ijebu region in Ogun State, Nigeria, is home to a wealth of cultural and historical significance "Tourist Sites", with numerous tourism opportunities that can contribute to the local and State economy while preserving the rich heritage of the Ijebu people.
However, most of these Tourist delight sites developmental efforts, towards harnessing it's potentials even for Community and State global Tourism status development are either giving lip service and abandoned by successive governments along with other adherent stakeholders.
That Ogun East and especially Ijebu is having more "Humanely Tourism" opportunities is not contestable. Humanely termed because most of them aside their historical records and values, are humanely custodian involved in its annual plus regular basis visitation especially that of Agemo Festival that usually attracted global tourists aiming to enjoy the live festivity events.
Ijebu is equally having Imagbon Water Tourist Haven, with its history concerning the battle engagement with the Foreign invaders that defeated the Ijebus however it is where the Ojude Oba Festival draws part of its inspiration from, as per the dynamic peak performance of Ijebu Baloguns in warfare victorie over the years
Buliki Sugbon Site at Oke Eri with its spiritual myths history, that hasn't been rubbish till now equally has its benefits and potential viz a viz Tourist delight and tourism opportunities.
While the Oluomo Rock Tourist Centre has been declared open afresh today and I can't but felt a mixed nostalgia feelings for my people at Ijebu axis concerning many tourism opportunities that are just lying fallow here and there at most Local Government axis of Ogun East.
Could it be because they're not at the capital of the State, hence not having proximity to the Government's seat of power.
Maybe Government officials and HE Mr Governor while touring more if the capital does have better opportunities or reassessment of those tourist sites at Abeokuta rather than those at Ogun East axis.
Well, no one can actually take the shine off HE Prince Dr Dapo Abiodun CON, Ogun State Governor who has deemed it fit to elevate the standard of Oluomo Rock Tourist Centre beyond the imagination of past Governors with newest innovative transformation.
However many people with deeper interest are concerned about the decay and flimsy interests of the government to develop those sites at this end. They are thus seeking political will towards better initiatives and stances for developing these sites forthwith.
According to words on the street of Ijebuland saying "With the kind of investment and efforts put up for Oluomo Rock Tourist Centre, Agemo Grooves that attracted more populations as tourists, would surely generate more revenues and enhanced better tourism opportunities, status plus global recognition from UNESCO aside other endorsement and sponsorship from corporate organisations regularly like Osun Oshogbo and others in the Nation does regularly".
Unlocking the Potential of Ijebu Tourism:
A Cultural and Economic Gem
The region's humanely tourism opportunities, such as the Agemo Festival, Imagbon Water Tourist Haven, Bilikisu Sungbo Shrine, etc offer a unique blend of cultural significance, natural beauty, and community engagement.
Despite their potential, these sites remain underdeveloped, raising questions about the government's priorities concerning other sites in the state and the potential for revenue generation, aside the sole focus on Olumo Rock Tourist Centre at Abeokuta.
Unlocking the Potential of Bilikisu Sungbo Shrine: A Cultural and Tourism Gem
The Bilikisu Sungbo Shrine in Oke-Eri, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Nigeria, is a site of immense historical and spiritual significance, believed by many to be the final resting place of the biblical Queen of Sheba. This sacred site attracts millions of visitors annually, drawn by its mystique and promise of divine healing.
Potential Benefits:
Job Creation: Developing the site for tourism could provide employment opportunities for local residents in areas like tour guiding, hospitality, and craft production.
- Economic Growth: A thriving tourism industry could generate revenue and stimulate infrastructure development in the area.
- Cultural Preservation: Tourism could promote awareness and appreciation of local heritage, preserving cultural traditions and the site's historical significance.
- Community Empowerment: Involving local communities in tourism development could empower them to manage resources and make decisions.
Challenges Hindering Development:
Lack of Funding: Insufficient funds to pursue development and management of tourism sites is a major challenge.
Poor Government Policy: Inadequate government support and policy framework can hinder tourism growth.
- Inadequate Infrastructure: Poor infrastructure, such as roads and amenities, can discourage tourists and hinder site development.
- Lack of Community Involvement: Excluding local communities from tourism development and management can lead to a lack of sense of ownership and responsibility.
Recommendations:
- Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborate with private investors to develop and manage the site.
- Community Engagement: Involve local communities in tourism development and management to ensure their needs and concerns are addressed.
- Sustainable Tourism Practices: Implement practices that minimize negative environmental and social impacts.
- Infrastructure Development: Improve infrastructure to support tourism growth.
The Imagbon Water Tourist Site:
A Hub for Cultural Heritage and Community Development
The Imagbon Water Tourist Site in Ijebu Ikoto is a significant cultural and historical destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, community engagement, and economic opportunities. This site is not only a popular spot for tourists but also a symbol of dignity and bravery for the Ijebu people globally.
Potential Benefits:
- Job Creation: Tourism development can provide employment opportunities for local residents in areas like tour guiding, hospitality, and craft production.
- Economic Growth: A thriving tourism industry can generate revenue and stimulate infrastructure development.
- Cultural Preservation: Tourism can promote awareness and appreciation of local heritage, preserving cultural traditions.
- Community Empowerment: Involving local communities in tourism development empowers them to manage resources and make decisions.
Values:
- Natural Resources: The site's natural beauty and water bodies make it an attractive destination for tourists interested in eco-tourism and recreational activities like swimming.
- Cultural Significance: The site's historical significance as a battleground against foreign invaders and its connection to the Ojude Oba Baloguns warriors make it a unique cultural destination.
- Community Engagement: The site's potential for community engagement and participation can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among local residents.
Tourism Activities:
- Swimming: The site's water bodies offer a popular spot for swimming and relaxation.
- Partying: The site is a hub for social gatherings and celebrations, showcasing the vibrant culture of the Ijebu people.
- Site Seeing: Tourists can explore the site's natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions.
- Historical Excursion: Visitors can learn about the site's rich history and cultural significance.
Call to Action
The Ogun State government should prioritize the development of these tourism sites, considering their cultural and historical significance by addressing the unwholesome preference to other tourist sites in Ogun State.
Report by
Femi Mebude
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