By Tunji Oladejo
Happy birthday to the dynamic and visionary Hon. Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Oyo State, Dr Wasiu Ajani Adewale Olatubosun, a worthy alumnus of the University of Ibadan.
As “Omo Iya Alagbo” (Son of the community mother who sells herbal mixtures), he is truly making waves in the culture and tourism sector. Under his leadership, the Ministry has become a revenue-generating powerhouse for the Oyo State Government. Thanks to his innovative approach and Governor Seyi Makinde’s unwavering support!
Dr Olatubosun’s achievements are a tribute to his dedication and passion for promoting Oyo State’s rich cultural heritage. He has employed several strategies to attract private investors to Oyo State’s tourism sector. One key approach is creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, which has led to increased investments in hospitality, with a staggering growth from 1,328 businesses in 2019 to 12,128 in 2024. The State Government has also partnered with private investors to develop tourist sites, such as the Royal Entertainment Cruise Resort at Eleyele, Ibadan, showcasing the potential for marine tourism in the State.
Oyo State has also attracted notable investors like Kunle Afolayan Film Village and AFRICHATTA Film Village, which have contributed to the State’s economic growth.
In addition, Dr Olatubosun has organised high-profile events like the Oyo State International Tourism Summit, which has put Oyo State on the global tourism map, attracting investors and showcasing the State’s rich cultural heritage.
The Commissioner has also promoted cultural festivals, such as the Egungun Festival and the World Sango Festival, now recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) as an intangible cultural heritage site, to boost cultural tourism.
Furthermore, the Ministry is rehabilitating tourist sites and historic monuments through public-private partnerships, enhancing the overall tourism experience. The Ministry aims to make Oyo State the cultural-tourism hub of the Southwest, with initiatives like the Mapo Hall Convergence, Cultural Celebrations at Liberty Stadium, Ado Awaye Suspended Lake, among others.
Dr Olatubosun’s approach to tourism development in Oyo State is a testament to his commitment to sustainable growth and community empowerment. By balancing development with cultural preservation, he has ensured that local communities are not only beneficiaries of tourism growth but also active participants in the process. Through his focus on sustainable tourism practices, Dr. Olatubosun has fostered a sense of unity and cooperation among locals, who are now more interested in preserving their cultural heritage. His efforts to involve locals in festival planning and execution have been particularly effective in promoting cultural exchange and understanding.
Furthermore, Dr. Olatubosun’s partnerships with organisations like Women In Hospitality Nigeria have empowered women and promoted cultural heritage, providing economic opportunities for local communities. His international partnerships and marketing efforts have also put Oyo State on the global tourism map, showcasing its rich cultural heritage to the world.
Overall, Dr. Olatubosun’s approach to tourism development is a model for sustainable growth and community empowerment, and his efforts are having a lasting impact on Oyo State’s cultural and economic landscape.
To cap it all, he is a total game-changer. In all the places he has served, he has received considerable credit. It is clear he brings his Midas touch to every role he has taken on. At the Ministry of Information, he was a master mobilizer, getting people on board and moving. And as Chairman of Ibadan Northwest Local Government, he set the bar high, leading by example and showing everyone what it means to get things done! His track record speaks for itself—wherever he has worked, he has made a real impact!
I celebrate Dr Wasiu Adewale Ajani Olatubosun on his special day. I pray for continued wisdom, strength and success in your endeavours. May your vision for Oyo State’s culture and tourism sector flourish and may this year and beyond bring you success, joy and peace, MashaAllah!
Congratulations and cheers!
Tunji Oladejo, mnipr, JP, writes from the University of Ibadan and is the Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) via oladejo65@gmail.com.
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