Ogun State Ends Free Entry to Olumo Rock Complex Over Safety Concerns

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The Ogun State Government announced on August 23 an abrupt end to the free entry policy into the renewed Olumo Tourist Centre Complex.

This announcement comes a month ahead of the September date previously announced by the government. A statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, stated that the free entry, earlier scheduled to end on the last day, has now come to an end due to safety concerns for the people.

The Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, explained that the abrupt closure was due to the extraordinary influx of tourists from all categories who took advantage of the free entry. 

The SSG stated that the large number of visitors each day could have created a dangerous situation if security teams and staff hadn’t acted quickly and professionally to prevent it, which also raised essential safety concerns.

The statement reads, “Accordingly, the Governor, known for prioritising human lives and safety, gave the directives just as he appreciated tourists from far and near who showed interest in the rediscovered tourist site that showcased the cultural and historical significance of the people.”

The release further added that routine access procedures will resume immediately, as the state government regrets any inconvenience this adjustment may cause and assures the public of its unwavering commitment to providing a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience for all visitors to the Olumo Rock Tourist Complex.

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In the short term, the cessation of free entry has introduced a layer of accessibility barriers that could temper the surge in visitation. During the promotional period, the complex experienced an unprecedented influx of tourists from diverse backgrounds, transforming Olumo Rock from a site that attracted around 20,000 visitors annually into a bustling hub that drew far larger numbers daily. 

This excitement, while showing that the government’s plan to boost cultural tourism is working, also revealed problems with the infrastructure, as there were close calls of overcrowding that were only prevented by careful security measures By reinstating standard fees set at ₦3,000 for adults and ₦1,500 for children, facilitated by a new e-ticketing platform, the government has effectively prioritised safety and crowd control. 

Public reactions, as observed on social media, reflect a mix of disappointment and understanding; many potential visitors lamented missing the free window, while some expressed their frustration more vocally. This process involves either rescheduling trips or advising against immediate visits during the transition phase. Such actions could result in a temporary dip in foot traffic, particularly among budget-conscious locals and families, potentially slowing the momentum built during the free period and affecting ancillary businesses, such as local vendors, transport operators, and nearby eateries, that benefited from the crowds.

Economically, however, the decision promises to bolster the tourism sector’s revenue streams, fostering a more sustainable model. Before the renovation and free entry campaign, Olumo Rock’s appeal had waned. Still, the initiative successfully “rediscovered” the site, drawing attention from far and wide and showcasing Ogun State’s rich historical narrative. With paid access resuming, the generated funds can be channelled into ongoing maintenance, enhancements, and marketing efforts, ensuring the complex remains a premium attraction. 

This aligns with broader state goals under Governor Dapo Abiodun, who has emphasised that tourism is a key driver of economic diversification in Ogun, a region already known for its industrial prowess. By preventing overuse and degradation during peak free access, the policy safeguards the site’s integrity, which is crucial for long-term appeal. 

 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Answers

Why was the free entry to Olumo Rock stopped?

The Ogun State Government stopped the free entry policy due to severe overcrowding. The massive influx of visitors created significant public safety concerns, including the risk of a potential stampede.

When does the free entry officially end?

The free entry period ends on Saturday, August 23, 2025.

The free entry was supposed to last until the end of September. Why the change?

You are correct; it was initially planned to end in September. However, the unexpectedly large number of visitors forced the government to end the policy prematurely to ensure the safety and security of everyone at the complex.

Do I have to pay to enter Olumo Rock now?

Yes. Normal paid access and standard entry procedures will resume for all visitors starting from Saturday, August 23, 2025.

Who announced this decision?

The decision was announced in an official statement signed by the Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, on behalf of the state government.