EKITI TOURISM CHIEF OJO-LANRE BAGS TOP HONOUR AT RURAL CONFERENCE
.... Durian NG Award Hails Rural Push – DG Praises Gov Oyebanji's Backing
Ekiti State’s Tourism Director-General,Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre has secured the prestigious Durian NG Award of Excellence in Rural Tourism.
The international organisation on Saturday bestowed the honour during its “Rural is Cool Conference” at The Dome, Akure. Durian NG promoter Miss Tony Joy praised Ojo-Lanre’s relentless drive to spotlight Ekiti’s hidden countryside treasures.
A visibly elated Ojo-Lanre declared that this recognition fuels the state’s fire emphasizing that Rural Ekiti is a goldmine of culture, nature,heritage which the state is unlocking for the world.
The DG specially commended Ekiti State Governor,Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) noting that the win reflects the Governor’s visionary leadership and rock-solid support.He stressed that his policies and funding empower the bureau to transform rural communities into tourism hubs.
Durian NG highlighted that Ojo-Lanre’s work proves rural tourism creates vital income streams for local guides, artisans, and homestays. Moreover, it actively preserves cultural traditions and historical sites that define community identity. Importantly, it incentivises environmental protection as villages leverage natural assets sustainably.
Furthermore, this approach builds local skills and pride, aligning perfectly with Durian’s “waste-to-wealth” philosophy.
Ojo-Lanre thereafter dedicated the award to Governor Oyebanji and Ekiti’s rural communities, declaring noting “This proves rural isn’t just cool – it’s Ekiti’s prosperous future!”
