In an effort to preserve the historical significance of Africa’s first plane crash site, the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, in collaboration with Agbo-Veterinary and Environmental Consult and Discover Ekiti Tourism Club, has organized an exciting pre-hiking event at Okelapa, Ikogosi Ekiti on Saturday.
The memorable pre- hike event was sponsored by ALLUVIUM, a leading IT team which offers the best Atlassian tool capabilities, ITSM offerings and DevOps Engineering and Engineers.
The event, which was held in Ikogosi Ekiti, was hosted by Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development. It also commanded the presence of the Chairman, Iyometa LCDA, Ogotun, Dr Leye Adeniji, High Chief Ayo Ademilua, the Asaoye of Ogotun, Dr Babajide Agboola, Barrister Adegboyega Morakinyo, Executive Secretary, EKBTD, Mr Peculiar Ekiran, Special Assistant, EKBTD, Mrs Ronke Dahunsi, Hajia Bolaji Adebayo Tawakalit and a delegation from ALLUVIUM.
According to Amb Wale Ojo-Lanre, the primary purpose was to call attention to the importance of preserving the remnants of a World War II plane that crash-landed on April 12, 1942, at Okelapa, Ikogosi Ekiti.
While highlighting the historical significance of the crash site, Amb Ojo-Lanre emphasised the need for international cooperation in preserving the important piece of World War II history.
The Tourism Bureau boss called on the European Union, the United States, Germany, Japan, Britain, and France, to contribute their expertise and resources towards safeguarding this unique historical monument.
The pre-tour hiking event attracted a diverse group of participants, including scholars, historians, adventure seekers, and eco-tourism enthusiasts.
The hike enabled attendees to appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape while immersing themselves in the rich history of the area.
The Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, along with its partners, ensured that all necessary safety measures were in place during the pre-hiking event. Expert guides were on hand to provide information about the crash site and its historical context.
This pre-hiking event is a prelude to the full-scale hiking and preservation project planned for Okelapa, Ikogosi Ekiti. The project aims to create a sustainable eco-tourism site, preserve the heritage of the crash site, and provide educational and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.
Meanwhile, Ojo-Lanre noted that the Ekiti State government is committed to working with international partners, organizations, and stakeholders to achieve this goal.
“As plans progress, the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development will continue to engage with relevant authorities, historical societies, and preservation organizations to ensure the successful realization of this project. Furthermore, the government welcomes contributions from well-meaning individuals, organizations, and governments to support the preservation efforts.”
