Oyebanji Aims to Make Ekiti a Cultural Tourism Hub

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has committed to leveraging his office to establish Ekiti as a prominent hub for cultural tourism and the creative economy, aiming to enhance the lives of the productive population in Nigeria and Africa. During the launch of the 2026 edition of the Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture (EKIFEST) on Wednesday at Fajuyi Pavilion in Ado Ekiti, with the theme “Continuity, The Pathway to Ensuring Prosperity,” he urged Ekiti youth to utilize their talents and creativity to generate jobs and wealth.

The festival commenced with a cultural parade featuring thousands of participants from the 16 local governments and other non-Ekiti nationalities to promote cultural awareness. Represented by Deputy Governor Chief Monisade Afuye, Oyebanji emphasized that creativity and talent development are vital for economic diversification and job creation, positioning Ekiti as a key destination in the cultural economy.