ABEOKUTA-
Ogun State’s strategic bid to reposition itself as a viable destination for tourism and cultural heritage development received a major boost with the formal inauguration of the Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN) Ogun State Chapter, held in Abeokuta, Nigeria on Wednesday, June 11th, 2025.
This landmark event signifies more than the establishment of a professional body’s presence—it underscores a broader shift toward structured tourism development and capacity building in a state rich with historical, spiritual, and cultural assets.
Opening Remarks
Delivering his opening remark, Chief Abiodun Odusanwo, FITPN, National President of ITPN, lauded the initiative to establish the Ogun State Chapter after a long anticipation. He described the move as a turning point, noting the chapter’s potential to redefine tourism management and professionalism within the region.
Chief Abiodun Odusanwo, President, ITPN delivering his remark at the inauguration
Chief Ayo Olumoko, FITPN, Vice President (Southwest Zone), in gis keynote address emphasized the importance of cultural identity and heritage preservation. Referencing the globally recognized Adire fabric, he asserted that while it belongs to the broader Yoruba culture, that it should be protected and projected globally.
In his welcome address, Dr. Abolaji Kelani, the newly inaugurated Chairman of the Ogun State Chapter, pledged to deepen the reach of ITPN across every local government in the state. He promised proactive engagement, innovative programming, and grassroots collaboration to ensure that tourism thrives sustainably across the state.
The inauguration of ITPN’s state chapter aims to professionalize, coordinate, and empower stakeholders in the sector to unlock Ogun’s full tourism potential.
Dr. Abolaji Kelani, Chairman, ITPN Ogun State Chapter delivering his welcome address
Ogun State: Untapped Potential
Ogun State, famously known as the “Gateway State” due to its proximity to Lagos and border position with Benin Republic, boasts numerous tourism attractions. From the ancient and iconic Olumo Rock, the sacred Bilikisu Sugbon, Shrine, and the vibrant Lisabi Festival, to being the spiritual home of Adire textile heritage, Ogun is well-positioned to emerge as a key player in Nigeria’s tourism economy more than ever before.
Despite this cultural wealth, the state has remained somewhat under-leveraged in national tourism strategies, probably until now.
A Milestone for ITPN’s National Vision
The Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN), a national organization mandated to enhance professionalism, service delivery, and institutional capacity across Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality sectors, continues its mission to decentralize operations and promote regional tourism excellence.
The Ogun State Tourism Roundtable panel session: L-R Dr. Abiola Lawal (LASUST); Amb. Kazeem Balogun, CEO Kalo Africa Media; Prof. H.A Bakare, FUNAAB and Dr. Ibrahim Adeshina, FTAN
Ogun Roundtable Deliberations
A compelling panel session titled “Sustainable Tourism: A Panacea for Job Creation and Economic Growth” featured prominent experts and stakeholders from academia, media, and industry.
Moderated by Dr. Abiola Lawal of the Lagos State University of Science and Technology, (LASUST) and the roundtable included:
Amb. Kazeem Balogun, CEO of Kalo Africa Media and VP (International Relations and Communications), Africa-International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC-World)
Prof. H.A. Bakare, Senior Lecturer, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
Dr. Ibrahim Adeshina Kukoyi, Ogun State Coordinator, Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN)
The discussions highlighted the vast economic benefits embedded in sustainable tourism practices and urged Ogun State to build a robust tourism economy that can generate employment, attract foreign exchange, and enhance its global image.
Dr. Abolaji Kelani Charting the Way Forward
The swearing-in of the chapter’s
executive council, led by Dr. Bolaji Kelani was a key highlight of the inauguration. Other executive members include:
- Mr. Muhammed Tijani – General Secretary
- Mrs. Ifeoluwa Olaleye – Financial Secretary
- Mr. Ayodele Ayodamola – Public Secretary
- Miss Kudirat Titilope Kolawole – Welfare Director
- Amb. Peace Onuiri – Treasurer
- Mr. Daniel Aduragbemi – Director, Special Duties & Projects
- Mr. Adebayo Adeshina – Ogun West Coordinator
- Mrs. Rita Dairo – Ogun Central Coordinator
- Prince Abiola Ogundeko – Ogun East Coordinator
- Mr. Ibrahim Makanjuola – Member Director
Chief Ayo Olumoko, VP, ITPN, South West Zone presenting Fellow’s certificate to Amb. Peace Onuiri during the ceremony
Inauguration and Recognition Ceremony
The formal inauguration of the Ogun State Chapter was conducted by Chief Odusanwo and Chief Olumoko, who charged the new leadership to uphold the standards and ethics of the institute. Certificates of recognition were presented to the newly inaugurated officials led by Dr. Bolaji Kelani.
In addition, several distinguished personalities were inducted into the institute as Fellows, including Amb. Peace Onuiri, who also serves as the chapter’s Treasurer—symbolizing a strong representation of leadership, gender balance, and inclusivity.
Other notable personalities at the event included Hon. Sesan Fagbayi, Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Ogun State (represented by the Deputy Director of Tourism) ; Mrs. Tokunbo Peters, Permanent Secretary, Ogun State Ministry of Transportation; Senior academics, tourism consultants, cultural custodians, and tourism entrepreneurs, stakeholders, tourism students and enthusiasts.
A New Era of Professionalism in Ogun Tourism
The inauguration of ITPN’s Ogun State Chapter marks a critical step in aligning Ogun’s tourism sector with global standards. With professional leadership now in place, a committed community of practitioners, and a state teeming with untapped cultural riches, Ogun is set to ascend as a model for sub-national tourism development in Nigeria.
As stakeholders left the event with renewed optimism, it was clear that the Gateway State is ready to open its doors wider to the world—through tourism.
