The Tourism Library

Ibadan, one of Africa’s largest indigenous cities, is steadily reclaiming its historic status as a centre of power, knowledge, commerce, and cultural influence. From its roots as a military and administrative capital in pre-colonial and colonial eras, Ibadan has evolved into a modern African metropolis whose strength lies in strategic governance, human capital, infrastructure renewal, and cultural resilience.  Currently, Ibadan is experiencing a transformation, one that positions it as a rising powerhouse not only in Nigeria but across Africa. Ibadan has long been a city of influence. Historically, it served as a  major political and military hub in Yoruba land,  An administrative capital during the colonial era, a  centre of education, hosting Nigeria’s first university (University of Ibadan), a  melting pot of commerce, culture, and intellectual thought  This foundation gave Ibadan a natural advantage, large population, strategic location, intellectual he...

VIBING DECEMBER AND BEYOND! Repositioning Oyo State as a Year-Round Sustainable Tourism Destination, as f lagship programmes are stimulating domestic tourism, boosting travel, tours and hospitality businesses, and strengthening Oyo State’s cultural economy. The administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, the Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, has taken deliberate steps to reposition tourism as a visible and viable sector of the state’s economy. Central to this effort is the use of strategic tourism programmes and events to drive destination awareness, cultural pride, and visitor traffic. One of the most notable initiatives is the introduction of “Vibing December”, a newly established annual tourism and cultural programme designed to place Oyo State firmly on Nigeria’s festive tourism calendar. The programme aligns with global best practices promoted by the UNWTO, particularly in the areas of destination marketing, seasonality management, cultural promot...

Arole Oduduwa, the Oonirisa   Champions Sustainable Tourism as a Catalyst for Decent Work and Regional Tourism Economic Development. His Imperial Majesty, Ọba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, Ooni of Ife, stands as a towering symbol of cultural renaissance and economic transformation in Southwest Nigeria. Through visionary leadership anchored in tourism development and cultural promotion, the Ooni has strategically positioned Ile-Ife as a globally respected heritage destination, unlocking sustainable economic opportunities for communities across the region. It is a royal vision that is transforming Cultural Assets into SDG-Driven Economic Growth, Community Resilience, and Responsible Tourism. His Imperial Majesty’s reign has projected tourism beyond tradition into a dynamic economic driver, stimulating regional growth, attracting domestic and international visitors, and strengthening public-private partnerships within the creative and cultural economy. Festivals, he...

Sustainable Tourism development thrives when governments deliberately apply the fundamental components of tourism in an integrated and sustainable manner. In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde has emerged as a practical example of a regional government leveraging these components to stimulate tourism growth, preserve heritage, create jobs, and enhance community development.  Attractions are the foundation of tourism, as they provide the primary motivation for travel. In recent times, Oyo State has witnessed deliberate efforts toward the rehabilitation, preservation, and revitalisation of cultural, historical, and natural tourism assets. Renewed attention to heritage and historical sites connected to the Yoruba civilization, including monuments, palaces, and cultural landmarks. Support for cultural festivals and creative expressions, positioning Ibadan and other parts of Oyo State as centres of arts, culture, and history. Environmental consciousness in tourism planning, ensuring that...