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In his efforts to place Ekiti State on the path of sustainable economic advancement, steady progress and enhancement of human and material resources, the state governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has declared his intention to create Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, for strategic economic enhancement of the humongous tourism assets in the state.
Oyebanji, who has been described as one of the most proactive governors in Nigeria, disclosed this while playing host to a delegation of Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), at his office in Ado Ekiti, on Wednesday.
The governor assured the NATOP delegation, who sought his blessing and that of Ekiti State for the hosting of its AGM, of his readiness and willingness to host the event.
He noted that his administration understands the importance of tourism to Ekiti State, adding that he has decided to explore tourism as a socio-economic agent of empowerment, employment, revenue generation, social engagement and development.
Oyebanji further said that his administration has realised that the tourism assets of Ekiti State would be enhanced profitably if it is treated as an economic and business entity, detached from unnecessary protocol and officialdom.
“Because of this, we have resolved and committed to position tourism as a vital economic sector. That is why we decided to establish and create the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, as a distinctive legal entity bereft of red tape and bureaucratic limitations,” he said.
Oyebanji noted that the legal framework of the Bureau has been fashioned out by the Ministry of Justice and the Bureau would commence operation in earnest.
The governor, who commended NATOP for thinking about Ekiti State for its AGM, tasked association’s Local Organising Committee to brief his office on the modalities for the hosting of the event within 10 days.