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Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the infrastructural development of Ile-Ife, with the goal of transforming the ancient city into a global tourism hub for the Yoruba race. This was disclosed in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, on Monday.
Governor Adeleke expressed concern over the underdevelopment of Ile-Ife and emphasized that the city’s historical and cultural significance necessitates a major facelift. He underscored the importance of making Ile-Ife an attractive destination for global visitors, as the city holds a key place as the cultural capital and religious base of the Yoruba people worldwide.
“Ile-Ife cannot continue to look like a village when global visitors come calling,” Adeleke stated while hosting leaders of the Ife Development Board at the Government House. He was accompanied by his deputy, Kola Adewusi, during the meeting.
The Governor further commended the support of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other Ife leaders for their backing of ongoing infrastructure projects, including the dualization of major roads and the construction of a flyover in the city. “I want to be recorded in history as the Governor who transformed Ile-Ife into a modern cultural and tourist city,” Adeleke added.
He highlighted the economic and cultural importance of the Lagere flyover, noting that it serves as a critical junction for business interactions from various parts of Osun State and neighboring regions.
In his remarks, the President of the Ife Development Board, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, praised Governor Adeleke for his developmental initiatives in Osun State, particularly in Ile-Ife. He also presented requests for further road expansion, enhanced security, and agricultural development, emphasizing the city’s significance as the ancestral home of the Yoruba people.
“Ile-Ife is our collective heritage. It deserves more than passing attention,” Adefaye said, urging all stakeholders to work together to enhance the city’s appeal as a key symbol of Yoruba pride.
