Osun State wants tourists to pay for services so sites can be improved.
The government says payments will help maintain attractions and grow the state’s tourism sector.
The Osun State Government has called on visitors to its tourist destinations to pay for services they enjoy during their visits, stressing that such payments are crucial for maintaining and upgrading facilities, as well as boosting the state’s revenue.
This appeal was made by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Abiodun Ojo, during the unveiling of activities for the first-ever week-long Osun Extravaganza and Mega Expo, scheduled to hold in Osogbo, the state capital.
Ojo extended invitations to tourism operators, hospitality businesses, travel agencies, cultural institutions, tech innovators, and creatives from across Africa to participate in the cultural fair. He revealed that the expo would feature a variety of events, including drawing and painting contests, dance and fashion competitions, debates, a cycling tourism challenge, historical tours, corporate business showcases, and local cuisine training sessions.
He explained that each event was strategically planned to cater to different interests and attract diverse participants. He added that attendees would also have the chance to witness the grand finale of the iconic annual Osun-Osogbo cultural festival.
Speaking on the government’s efforts, Ojo noted that the Adeleke-led administration has prioritized the enhancement of tourist sites across the state. He urged tourists to support these efforts by responsibly using the facilities and paying for services provided.
“We are making notable progress across our tourist destinations,” he said. “People are coming from places like Lagos to enjoy Osun’s hospitality, and we are committed to providing basic amenities at these locations. But we need your encouragement too support us by paying for the services you use. When you visit, please pay.”
He also appealed to visitors to treat the sites with respect and maintain cleanliness during their stay. “Let’s not desecrate these sites. Let’s protect them. These places are part of our shared heritage and it’s our joint duty to preserve them,” Ojo added.
The commissioner reassured the public that despite existing challenges, the state government remains dedicated to developing the tourism sector. He called on private individuals and corporate organizations to partner with the government to strengthen the revenue potential of Osun’s cultural and tourist attractions.
