The Oyo State Government has officially announced the second edition of the International Tourism Summit Oyo State (ITSOyoState2025), building on the success of its inaugural event last year.
According to a statement released on 18th May 2025, by Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Special Adviser on Media to Governor Seyi Makinde, the 2025 edition will take place in July at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan. It is expected to be a transformative event for tourism investment in Nigeria.
UI Zoological Garden, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
“This year’s summit is not just a celebration of culture, it is a strategic investors’ gathering designed to present some high-impact tourism investment destinations to local and international investors.
“The goal is to unlock public-private partnerships, secure long-term investments, and reposition Oyo State as Nigeria’s model for tourism-led economic transformation,” the statement reads.
The statement further highlighted that ITSOyoState2025 anticipates participation from foreign embassies, international and domestic tourism operators, financial institutions, development partners, and the private sector. The event will feature:
- An exclusive Investment Roundtable where viable, government-backed tourism projects will be pitched directly to investors.
- Site visits to three heritage-rich destinations, including royal palaces and ecotourism hubs, provide firsthand exposure to investment-ready opportunities.
- A showcase of Oyo State’s renewed infrastructure, safety record, and regulatory environment, which are already driving increased tourist traffic and investor interest.
- Cultural exhibitions and curated networking opportunities to foster meaningful collaborations across sectors.
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Speaking on the summit’s significance, the organisers highlighted that Governor Makinde’s administration has intentionally positioned tourism as a key pillar for diversifying the state’s economy. With a revamped road network, enhanced security infrastructure, streamlined policies, and advanced digital investor support systems, the state has become one of the most attractive destinations for tourism investment in West Africa.
Nigerian Tribune reports that the summit fosters collaboration across sectors through networking opportunities, bringing together foreign embassies, tourism operators, financial institutions, development partners, and the private sector. It focuses on repositioning tourism as a driver for sustainable development in Oyo State, emphasising economic growth, social cohesion, and environmental conservation.
This is also an opportunity for the state to showcase its tourism treasures, such as the Cultural Centre, Ibadan; Bower’s Tower, Eleyele Waterfront; Idere Hills; Iyake suspended lake; and Iyamapo Hills. The summit included site visits to heritage-rich destinations, providing firsthand exposure to investment-ready opportunities.
Dr Wasiu Olatubosun, Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, has inaugurated a seven-member planning committee. Other members include Hon. Akinola Ojo, Commissioner for Finance; Dr Debo Akande, Executive Adviser (Agribusiness, International Cooperation and Development); Dr Morohunkola Thomas, Director General, Oyo State Mobilisation Agency for Socio-Economic Development (OYMASED); Mr Tilewa Folami, Director General, Oyo State Investment and Public-Private Partnership Agency (OYSIPA); Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Special Adviser (Media); Ms Lolade Ajibola, Senior Special Assistant (Special Duties); and Ms Abigail Anaba, Chief Experience Officer, Slvr Wlf Digitale Ltd.
Stay updated with the latest developments in Nigeria’s tourism sector by exploring our Nigeria Tourism News section.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) & Answers
What is ITSOyoState2025?
ITSOyoState2025 is the second edition of Oyo State’s International Tourism Summit, which promotes tourism investment, public-private partnerships, and economic transformation through heritage and cultural tourism.
When and where will ITSOyoState2025 take place?
The summit is scheduled for July 2025 at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Who can attend the summit?
ITSOyoState2025 will welcome foreign embassies, tourism operators, financial institutions, development partners, government officials, and private investors interested in Nigeria’s growing tourism sector.
What are the key highlights of ITSOyoState2025?
- Investment Roundtable with pitches on viable, government-backed tourism projects.
- Site visits to heritage-rich destinations, including royal palaces and ecotourism hubs.
- Showcase of Oyo State’s infrastructure and investment climate.
- Cultural exhibitions and curated networking sessions.
How does Oyo State plan to attract tourism investment?
Under Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership, Oyo State has improved road infrastructure, security, policy frameworks, and digital investor support systems, making it one of West Africa’s most attractive investment destinations.
How can investors participate in ITSOyoState2025?
Interested investors can register for the summit, attend investment pitch sessions, explore tourism-ready destinations, and engage in strategic discussions with government officials and industry leaders.
Where can I get more information or register for the event?
For updates and registration details, visit the official Oyo State Government tourism website or follow official state channels for announcements.
