The First Lady of Kwara State, founder of Ajike People support Centre and the chairperson Nigerian Governors Spouses Forum, Professor Olufolake Abdulrazaq has disclosed that the state under the leadership of Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that opportunities in the tourism sector in the State is maximized.

Speaking at the 8th Annual General Meeting, AGM of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators, NATOP, Professor (Mrs.) Abdulrazaq stated that this is evident in the government’s engagements in partnerships, evolving investment friendly policies and engaging in putting in place infrastructures to drive all sectors of the state’s economy.

She pointed out that In complementing this drive of government her office and the Ajike People Support Center is actively involved in promoting tourism and celebrating the cultural heritage of their people.

She noted that ‘Tourism as a catalyst for progress, peace and partnerships’ which is the theme of the year’s conference speak more to the cardinal role harnessing Nigeria’s tourism potential can play in fostering plausible partnerships, addressing salient security concerns while creating pathways into job creation and promoting entrepreneurship in the sector.

The Kwara First Lady explained that the state with her vantage in the North Central region is endowed with immense and captivating tourist destinations.

She noted that the Owu falls which is
widely referred to as ‘ a wonder in the wilderness’ is the highest and most spectacular natural water fall in West Africa, while the Esie Museum founded in 1945 and widely referenced to as the mother of all museums in Nigeria is located in Irepodun local government area of Kwara State.

She listed others as the Imole Boja Rock Shelter, the Sobi Hills, the University of Ilorin Zoo, the Dada Pottery, the Aso Oke weaving centers among other very interesting sites.

“In celebrating our culture and traditions we equally have the annual Ilorin durbar, the gani festival, the shao mass wedding and the patigi boat regatta to mention a few. With rich historical background these wonders of nature and exquisite cultural events are a sight to behold and with the convocation of this conference in Kwara it is my sincere believe that your organization will explore these spots and further promote the economic potentials abound there in”, the Kwara First Lady explained.

She lauded the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators for being at the fore front of driving the growth and development of tourism in the country with dedication to evolving initiatives to create remarkable experience for tourists and promoting the cultural and natural treasures of Nigeria.

Prof Abdulrazaq (Mrs.) noted that NATOP has forged strategic partnerships to promote the Nigerian brand in the course of their existence.

The Kwara First Lady disclosed that she has sponsored some of their traditional Aso Oke weavers to participate in fashion shows of international repute with a view to showcasing Kwara State and enhancing their capacities.