By JACOB OGUNSEYE

Governor Ademola Adeleke?s administration recently unveiled a N159 billion development plan for Osun State, promising economic transformation and infrastructural renewal. Yet, despite this massive budget, one sector that could significantly boost the state?s economy has shamefully been ignored: tourism.

In August 2024, Governor Adeleke made a surprise visit to Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls following a public outcry over its deplorable condition. He witnessed firsthand the crumbling infrastructure, poor access roads, lack of proper facilities, and overall neglect of one of the State?s most valuable tourist attractions. He promised to take action, raising hopes among the people. However, months later, nothing has changed. There have been no renovations, no investments?just silence.

Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls is not merely a scenic site; it is an economic asset that, if properly developed, could generate revenue, create jobs, and boost local businesses. Yet, under Adeleke?s leadership, the site remains abandoned. Visitors struggle to access it, and there are no standard accommodation facilities.

How can a governor witness such neglect, acknowledge its importance, and still fail to act? Adeleke?s silence is not just disappointing; it is a betrayal of the Osun people. His government has found billions to fund other projects, but tourism remains an afterthought.

Osun State is home to the globally recognized Osun-Osogbo Festival, a UNESCO-listed cultural event that attracts thousands of visitors annually. This festival should be at the center of Osun?s tourism strategy, with strategic promotion and world-class infrastructure to accommodate visitors.

Other states have successfully leveraged tourism for economic growth. For instance, the Calabar Carnival in Cross River, the Ojude Oba Festival in Ogun, and the Argungu Fishing Festival in Kebbi all generate billions of naira annually. Yet, Osun?s tourism sector remains stagnant due to a lack of government commitment.

Oyo State serves as a clear example of what effective leadership and commitment can achieve in tourism. A recent economic and business survey conducted in December 2024 revealed that the number of daily visitors to Oyo increased from 1,604 in May 2019 to 18,459 in December 2024. This surge resulted in an increase in registered tour operators from 96 in 2019 to 1,704 in 2024.

This remarkable growth is attributed to deliberate policies, improved infrastructure, enhanced security, and active promotion of tourist attractions. In contrast, the Oyo State government has treated tourism as a serious economic driver, whereas Osun has sidelined it.

Governor Adeleke is widely known for his love of dancing, but governance is not a stage performance. Osun needs leadership that delivers results, not just entertainment. If he genuinely cares about the economic transformation of Osun, he must move beyond simply dancing and making empty promises and getting to work.

His N159 billion plan must prioritize tourism development:

Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls should be developed into a modern tourist destination with proper roads, accommodations, and security.

The Osun-Osogbo Festival must be effectively promoted with improved infrastructure to accommodate more visitors.

Strategic marketing and partnerships with travel agencies, hospitality businesses, and international tourism boards should be pursued.

Investment in security and road networks is essential to make tourist sites accessible and safe for visitors.

Tourism is not just about cultural heritage; it is about revenue, job creation, and economic growth.

Governor Adeleke, it?s time to transition from promises to tangible actions that will position Osun State as a premier tourist destination.

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