Governor Oyebanji Urges Swift Action on Economic Blueprint for Mount of Clouds

The Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, has responded to Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s recent directive by affirming the Bureau’s readiness to drive a comprehensive development blueprint for the Mount of Clouds, Oke Sagbonke.

Speaking shortly after Governor Oyebanji’s address at the 7th edition of Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari, themed “Hike and Dine in the Clouds”, Barrister Ojo-Lanre described the Governor’s call to action as “a timely and visionary step towards repositioning Ekiti as a leading destination for eco-tourism and agribusiness in Nigeria.”

The event, held on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the scenic Oke Sagbonke in Efon Alaaye, drew tourists, investors, and key stakeholders from across the country. It was organized by the Discover Ekiti Tourism Club in collaboration with the Bureau of Tourism Development.

Ojo-Lanre applauded the Governor’s unwavering commitment to tourism-led economic development, noting that the Mount of Clouds—with its breathtaking landscape and the largest pineapple plantation in the South West—is a sleeping giant waiting to be awakened.

“In line with His Excellency’s directive, we will immediately initiate inter-agency consultations and mobilize expert teams to draft a sustainable and inclusive development framework for Oke Sagbonke. The mountain holds massive potential, not only as a natural wonder but as a magnet for job creation, investment, and community empowerment,” he said.

He also praised the collaborative efforts of the Commissioner for Investment, Trade and Industry, Mrs. Adeola Omotayo, and the Director General of the Ekiti State Development and Promotion Agency, Mrs. Lolade Ronke Olutola, expressing confidence in a unified strategy that integrates tourism, agriculture, and infrastructure development.

Barrister Ojo-Lanre emphasized that the success of the Hike and Dine in the Clouds event has further validated the mountain’s appeal and positioned Ekiti for greater attention in national and international tourism circles.

“We are inspired by the Governor’s vision. This directive gives new momentum to our ongoing mission to spotlight Ekiti’s hidden treasures. We are not only ready—we are excited to shape a new narrative for Mount of Clouds and the future of tourism in Ekiti,” he concluded.