In a groundbreaking event that has set a new precedent for youth engagement in Ekiti State, the Office of Youth Inclusion, led by Hon. Ayo Ojo, has successfully launched Ekiti Quest: The Forgotten King’s Garden—a high-energy adventure challenge designed to test intellect, teamwork, and endurance.
The maiden edition, held at the scenic Asha Botanical Gardens in Basiri, Ado Ekiti, saw three competing teams—BAO, ASHA, and TAYI—battle through a series of mind-bending puzzles, botanical challenges, and physical trials to uncover the mythical “Forgotten King’s Scroll.” Against all odds, Team TAYI (The Office of the Technical Advisor on Inclusion) emerged victorious, clinching the ultimate prize.
Inspired by the legend of a vanished king who once ruled the gardens, the quest revolved around six sacred pillars:Wisdom, Justice, Sacrifice, Strength, and Truth. Teams navigated different trails—North, East, and West—deciphering riddles and overcoming obstacles to progress.
– First Challenge: Teams solved puzzles—arranging colored drinks, decoding hidden letters, or acting out charades—to earn stickers and advance.
– Second Challenge:A botanical test required matching plant names, finding hidden words, or assembling a fragmented quote.
– Final Sprint:The top teams raced against a 15-minute timer to locate the hidden scroll, with Team TAI making a stunning comeback by discovering it beneath a yam plant.
Initially, Team BAO led the pack, followed by Team ASHA, while Team TAI struggled—nearly giving up before a lifeline (“I’M IN” sticker) reignited their hopes. Their perseverance paid off when they decoded the final riddle and secured victory in a dramatic finale.
Speaking to JIROLTV, excited participants praised the initiative, calling it a refreshing and intellectually stimulating experience.
Renowned brand expert and creative architect Mr.Adebayo Aladejare
, (TWANNI) an indigene of Ikere Ekiti, commended the initiative, stating, “Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji made the right choice appointing Hon. Ayo Ojo. This program aligns perfectly with the vision for youth development.”
In his address, Hon. Ayo Ojo described the quest as a “prototype of greater things to come,”emphasizing Governor Oyebanji’s commitment to youth empowerment.
“This initiative is part of our ‘I’M IN’ campaign, rooted in ensuring Ekiti youth are SEEN, HEARD, VALUED, and SUPPORTED,” he said.
Since its inception, the Office of Youth Inclusion has driven multiple programs, including G.A.N.E.Y, Youth Hangout (D.E.E.P), Mountain Climbing, and tours of Ekiti’s heritage sites—all receiving overwhelming feedback.
With the success of this maiden edition, Hon. Ojo hinted at bigger, more immersive quests in the pipeline, reinforcing the state’s dedication to fostering productive and intellectually engaged youths.
“We remain steadfast in delivering on the governor’s mandate,” he affirmed.
As Ekiti’s youth continue to embrace these innovative platforms, the state solidifies its reputation as a hub for creative and transformative youth engagement.
