Asha Gardens Can Boost Ekiti’s Economy – Chief Ogunleye Urges Commercialisation
... As Technical Advisor Youth Inclusion Ayo Ojo Visits Botanical Haven
By Wale Odoko, Head,,Content Creation & Media, Office of Youth Inclusion
A Prominent community leader and proprietor of Asha Botanical Gardens, Chief Rufus Kayode Ogunleye, has called for the commercialisation of the renowned relaxation spot to further enhance Ekiti State’s tourism and economic potential.
Chief Ogunleye made the appeal during a courtesy visit by the Technical Advisor on Youth Inclusion to the Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayo Ojo, shortly after the successful D.E.E.P Convo youth hangout event hosted at the garden.
Praising Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) for his transformative leadership, Chief Ogunleye recounted how the governor had previously visited him and expressed interest in replicating the botanical garden model across the state as part of his urban beautification agenda.
“Governor Oyebanji has shown exceptional commitment to Ekiti’s growth. His vision to expand green spaces like Asha Gardens demonstrates his dedication to both environmental sustainability and economic development,” Chief Ogunleye stated.
Reflecting on the garden’s origins, he emphasised the importance of harnessing natural resources and maintaining them for long-term benefits.”Ekiti is blessed with abundant resources; we must identify, develop, and sustain them for future generations,” he added.
During the visit, Mr. Ayo Ojo commended Chief Ogunleye’s efforts in establishing and maintaining the garden, expressing optimism about its commercial potential.”Asha Gardens is a testament to what can be achieved with vision and dedication. With the right strategies, it can become a major revenue-generating asset for the state,”Ojo remarked.
The event further highlighted Governor Oyebanji’s youth-focused initiatives, with the D.E.E.P Convo providing a platform for young people to engage in meaningful discussions on development and inclusion.
Chief Ogunleye concluded with a prayer for the governor’s continued strength and success, affirming that “Ekiti’s greatest interests are indeed Governor BAO’s priority.”
