Wale Ojo-Lanre Honoured with Durian NG Award for Excellence in Rural Tourism

Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, the Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, has been honoured with the prestigious Durian NG Award for Excellence in Rural Tourism. The award was presented during the “Rural is Cool” Conference, a landmark event held at The Dome in Akure, Ondo State.

Presented by Miss Tony Joy, founder and promoter of Durian NG, the award recognises Ojo-Lanre’s unwavering dedication and transformative contributions to the growth and development of rural tourism, particularly in Ekiti State. His strategic efforts in spotlighting Ekiti’s cultural heritage, ecological assets, and rural hospitality were lauded as exemplary and impactful.

The event, hosted by Durian NG, an internationally respected non-governmental organisation based in Imafon Village, Akure, brought together stakeholders committed to reimagining rural spaces as hubs of sustainable development. The organisation, known for its grassroots work in ecological sustainability and community empowerment, found in Ojo-Lanre a true ally in its mission to make rural life attractive, economically viable, and environmentally responsible.

Barrister Ojo-Lanre’s recognition is a reflection of his belief in rural tourism as a powerful tool for socio-economic transformation. Under his leadership, Ekiti State has seen a renewed emphasis on the value of rural communities as both cultural custodians and key players in tourism-based development.

By drawing visitors to often-overlooked regions, rural tourism opens up income-generating opportunities for local artisans, guides, and entrepreneurs—diversifying economies and reducing reliance on traditional, often fragile, sources of livelihood.

Tourists’ growing desire for authentic experiences incentivises rural communities to protect and celebrate their unique customs, folklore, and historical landmarks—transforming culture into an asset and a source of pride.

With communities benefiting directly from their environment through tourism, there is a stronger incentive to protect natural resources. Durian NG’s focus on ecological sustainability complements this approach, especially through their innovative “waste to wealth” programmes.

Through skill acquisition and entrepreneurship, rural populations are empowered. From guiding and hospitality to recycling and crafts, tourism fosters local talent, resilience, and self-reliance.

Rural tourism also encourages meaningful interaction between visitors and residents, breaking down stereotypes and building mutual understanding and global friendships.

Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre’s leadership and advocacy have placed Ekiti on the map as a model for rural tourism development. The Durian NG Award not only celebrates his achievements but also serves as a clarion call for other leaders, policymakers, and communities to invest in and embrace the vast potential of rural Nigeria.

“This is not just a personal honour,” Ojo-Lanre said in his acceptance speech. “It is a recognition of the hard work of everyone in Ekiti who believes in the promise of our villages, our culture, and our people. Indeed, rural is not just cool—it is the future.”

As the global tourism sector continues to evolve toward more sustainable and inclusive models, this recognition reinforces Nigeria’s potential to lead with innovative rural tourism initiatives that empower communities, preserve heritage, and protect the environment.

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