Governor Aiyedatiwa signals strong commitment by appointing Afolabi as Commissioner for Culture and Tourism

In a bold and visionary move to restore Ondo State’s tourism landmarks to their former glory, the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has declared its unwavering commitment to revitalizing the historic Idanre Hills—a site long considered a crown jewel of Nigeria’s cultural and ecological heritage.

This renewed drive was reaffirmed during an official visit by the Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Segun Afolabi, to the ancient settlement of Oke Idanre, where he led a strategic delegation on an assessment tour. Afolabi’s appointment, regarded as a calculated step by the Governor, reflects the administration’s seriousness in placing tourism and culture at the forefront of Ondo State’s economic renewal.

During the visit, the Commissioner and his team undertook the iconic climb of the 682 steps leading to the hilltop, inspecting key historical and cultural sites such as the old palace, traditional court, sacred shrines, and abandoned residential quarters. These features, many of which have fallen into disrepair, represent centuries of Yoruba history and are regarded as central to the identity of the Idanre people.

“We cannot allow this national treasure to remain neglected,” Hon. Afolabi stated. “Governor Aiyedatiwa is determined to restore Idanre Hills to its rightful status—not just as a tourism destination but as a symbol of heritage, pride, and economic growth.”

“World Oke Idanre Day” in the Works

In a major policy push, Afolabi disclosed that the Ministry of Culture and Tourism is preparing to propose “World Oke Idanre Day” for international recognition under UNESCO, aiming to give global visibility to the unique cultural expressions, oral traditions, architecture, and festivals of the Idanre people.

“This is more than tourism; this is about putting Idanre on the map of world civilization,” Afolabi noted. “A UNESCO-recognized celebration will not only draw global attention to Idanre but also unlock international partnerships and investments.”

Revival Plans for Ondo State Golf Course

The delegation also visited the long-abandoned Ondo State Golf Course in Atosin-Idanre, a facility with the potential to host international sporting events and luxury leisure experiences. Hon. Afolabi emphasized that with targeted investment and private-sector partnerships, the golf course could become a premium destination, injecting life into the state’s hospitality industry.

“Golf tourism is an untapped goldmine. Repositioning this facility is part of our broader plan to diversify the state’s economy and enhance its appeal to high-value visitors,” he said.

A Team with a Mission

Joining the Commissioner on the oversight mission were:

• Mr. Adeyemi O. Sule, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Culture & Tourism

• Mr. Adeola Aderinola, Director of Tourism

• Princess Dupe Adetuwo, Special Assistant to the Governor on Culture

• Hon. Dimeji Olanegan, Special Assistant to the Governor on Mobilization

Their collective resolve signals a united front in executing Governor Aiyedatiwa’s cultural and tourism blueprint—a vision of inclusive growth, heritage restoration, and strategic economic transformation.

With strong political will, passionate leadership, and a clear roadmap, the glory of Idanre Hills is set to rise once more—ushering in a new era of tourism prosperity for Ondo State.

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