The Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism has reaffirmed its partnership with the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) to further boost tourism in the state.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, stated this while receiving a delegation of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA), Western Zone, in his office.
The Commissioner explained that the ministry has significantly expanded its activities from 80 to 130.
“Our programmes have increased from 80 in 2024 to 130 in 2025. Most of these programmes were not fully funded by the state government; rather, we receive support from groups and corporate bodies who come into Oyo State to execute their programmes and succeed, such as “December Vibing, held last year,” he said.
Dr. Olatubosun commended the NANTA executives, describing them as a team of intellectuals, while also acknowledging the outgoing leadership.
The Commissioner assured the delegation of the ministry’s support for the association Annual General Meeting.
“We will support the programme through the Akede Asa Media Crew to livestream the events and give them wide publicity,” he added.
He, therefore, dedicated the award given to him by NANTA to the state Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, as well as the management team of the ministry’s team.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Vice Chairman of NANTA Western Zone, Otunba Babatunde Adesokan, said the association has felt Dr. Olatubosun’s impact more than any Commissioner had ever worked with, describing him as the most supportive and passionate advocate of tourism development in Oyo State.
Otunba Adesokan disclosed that Oyo State would host the association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) and 50th anniversary celebration from April 15 to 18, 2026, noting that about 500 members are expected to attend the landmark event.
Also speaking, the Deputy Chairman of NANTA Western Zone, Dr. Olatokunbo Dagunduro, said the association came to honour the Commissioner because Oyo State has set a unique pace in tourism development without imitating any other state.
He stated that in nearly 20 years, no administration has achieved what Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun has accomplished within a short time, describing the Commissioner as a creative leader who has deployed innovative programmes to promote the state’s rich cultural assets.
Dr. Dagunduro added that the visit was also to seek synergy, partnership, and the support of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism towards the successful hosting of the forthcoming AGM and anniversary celebration in the state.
The delegation presented an award to the commissioner in recognition of his contributions to tourism development and the promotion of the state’s cultural heritage
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