By Ayodele Abere
The Director-General of Bureau of Tourism Development in Ekiti State, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, has commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his visit to the derelict house of the Ekiti-born world’s best carver, Olowe of Ise, in Ise Ekiti.
During the visit, Governor Oyebanji expressed his commitment to transforming the house into a museum and tourism center, showcasing the rich awesome works of art of the late iconic carver.
Governor Oyebanji who was accompanied by Senator Babafemi Ojudu, President Olowe of Ise Art Foundation, Mr Akin Oyebode, Commissioner for Finance, Ekiti State, Prince Tunde Odunlade, Promoter Tunde Odunlade Gallery of Arts Conezions Ibadan, Amb Wale Ojo – Lanre, Director – General, The Bureau of Tourism Development, Ekiti. State, visited the palace of the Oba of Ise, His Royal Majesty Oba Adetunji Ajayi who prayed for the Governor and the success of his vision for Ise on the Olowe of Ise Museum before proceeding to the Olowe of Ise House
Amb Wale Ojo Lanre applauded Governor Oyebanji’s visionary approach to tourism development in Ekiti State saying “by recognizing the significance of the works of Olowe of Ise and his decision to turn the derelict house of the late world’s renowned carver whose works of art dominated museums all over Europe, the Governor has taken a significant step towards preserving the image and legacy of Olowe of Ise, showcasing Ekiti arts and cultural heritage, and promoting tourism in the state’.
The DG pointed out that the late Olowe of Ise is renowned globally for his exceptional woodcarvings, which have garnered international acclaim, transforming his historic house into a museum and tourism center would not only attract tourists from around the world but also provide an opportunity for local artisans to showcase their talent and contribute to the economic growth of the state.
The Tourism Ambassador believes that this initiative will not only boost the tourism sector, and turn Ise Ekiti into an art hub but also create employment opportunities for the people of Ekiti State.
He therefore pledged his full support to Governor Oyebanji’s efforts in transforming the House of Olowe of Ise into a museum and tourism center.
The Ambassador aaassured the Governor that the Bureau will work tirelessly to ensure the successful implementation of the project by collaborating with relevant stakeholders to make it a reality.
Wale Ojo-Lanre also called on the people of Ekiti State to embrace and support this initiative and other tourism visions of the Governor. ‘I enjoin all of us in the State not only to support Governor Oyebanji in all his programmes but also pray for his success at transforming Ekiti state to an irresistible tourism destination ‘
The Bureau of Tourism Development, Ekiti State is responsible for promoting and developing tourism in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The Bureau aims to showcase the cultural heritage, natural beauty, and tourist attractions of the state, contributing to its economic growth and development.