Adeleke approves upgrade of major tourism sites across Osun

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has approved the upgrade of key tourism and cultural sites in Osogbo, Ilesa, Ile-Ife, and Ede as part of his administration’s drive to expand the state’s creative economy and secure UNESCO recognition.

Speaking through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, on Wednesday, Adeleke said the initiative is aimed at boosting tourist inflow by at least 60 percent within the next year.

He added that the state is adopting a mix of direct government interventions and public-private partnerships to ensure sustainable development of the sector.

“Expanding tourist inflow is a cardinal programme within our agenda. As the cradle of the Yoruba nation, we have a lot to showcase. We want to ensure we implement phased upgrades and expansion of cultural sites to widen global recognition and UNESCO support,” the governor said.

Among the projects approved are the Ifá Agbaye Temple in Ile-Ife, to serve international visitors during the annual Ifa Day celebration; the Iwude Ijesa project, designed to attract UNESCO recognition and investment; and the Sango Timi Shrine in Ede, which will feature an auditorium, pavilion, art and craft workshop, and museum.

The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, already a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will continue to receive state-backed interventions to strengthen its global profile.

The governor’s move follows criticism that his administration has focused heavily on projects in his hometown, particularly after approving ₦678 million for the reconstruction of the Sango-Timi shrine and grove in Ede.

Reacting to the latest development, the Coordinator of the Osogbo Development Action Group (ODAG), Omosola Olabode, urged the government to prioritise investments in projects with proven economic value. He argued that resources should be directed toward sites like the Osun-Osogbo Festival and Olumirin Falls, which have consistently attracted both local and international tourists.

Adeleke, however, maintained that due process will be strictly observed in the execution of all projects.

He said all upgrades would follow budgetary and procurement guidelines, with details published on the state’s procurement portal to ensure transparency.

According to him, the cultural sites approved for development will be implemented in phases, with the Ministry of Art and Culture currently compiling a comprehensive list for future interventions.