Lawmaker calls for development of Idanre Hill’s tourism potential
A member of the House of Representatives, Festus Akingbaso, has called for the development of the tourism potential of Idanre Hills, Ondo State.
He said the tourism potentials instilled by nature in the Idanre community in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State were capable of transforming the fortune of the state if fully utilised.
To this end, the lawmaker who represents Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency urged the stakeholders to develop tourist centres in the state to generate revenue for the government and create employment opportunities.
Akingbaso stated this while giving his account of stewardship to the constituency at Owa’ s Palace, Idanre on Saturday.
According to him, the Idanre Hills which has been recognised as UNESCO Heritage Centre could generate enough revenue for both the state and the Federal government if the needed infrastructure was put into place.
He said, “You will see a lot of artifacts in Idanre Hills and you will be amazed. There is no place you can see these in Nigeria.
“There are many ways that Idanre Hills can be developed: This tourism is of prime importance to us. It can be developed if we put a good infrastructure base in place. There should be a good road network to the community and an adequate power supply to harness the benefits of tourism fully.
“I am liasing with Federal Government agencies, particularly the National Tourism Board, and showing them what we have and what they can do for us on a short-term and long-term basis. Idanre is well blessed. We stress the issue of tourism because that is a heritage we have here. We as a people in Idanre will prepare a blueprint for tourism.
“We are a world heritage centre but we cannot see the benefit so we will definitely sit down to prepare a policy plan for the Idanre community. ”
He noted that the tourism sector had some components that could enhance the development and growth of society.
“We are working hard to make enlistment processes of Idanre Hills a reality. Immediately after our inauguration, we facilitated a physical joint meeting with Ondo State Government and a meeting is coming up between the state government, the Federal Ministry of Tourism and Culture, the National Commission of Museum and Monument stakeholders where the grey areas of the enlistment of Idanre Hills as a UNESCO Heritage Centre will be addressed,” he said.
In his remarks, the Owa of Idanre land, Oba Fredrick Aroloye, lauded the lawmaker, saying it was impressive that Akingbaso did not disappoint the federal constituency but had ensured quality representation.
The monarch urged the lawmakers not to relent in his efforts, noting that he has been a good example for other politicians.
