BY LAW IBITOYE
The 2025 World Tourism Day celebration held in Igede-Ekiti on Saturday, 27 October , turned into a moment of pride and glory for the people of Ilupeju-Ekiti, as the community clinched two major awards at the event organized by the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism.
Ilupeju-Ekiti emerged winner of the Best Tourism Community Award 2025, while Oloye Esan Ogunleye was named Ekiti Tourism Personality of the Year 2025.
The awards were received on behalf of the community leaders by Comrade Ebenezer Adesoro, who stood in for His Royal Majesty, the Apeju of Ilupeju-Ekiti, Oba Sunday David Awe Akingbade, and Alh. Prince Amusa, who received the honour for Oloye Esan Ogunleye.
Speaking at the colourful ceremony, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism, Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre, commended Ilupeju-Ekiti for its enduring commitment to cultural preservation and tourism promotion. He particularly eulogized the Apeju of Ilupeju-Ekiti, describing him as “a visionary monarch who has consistently embraced culture and projected it as a tool of unity, identity, and development.”
“The Apeju, Kabiyesi Oba Sunday David Awe Akingbade, stands tall among our royal fathers who understand that culture is the soul of our heritage. By supporting festivals, safeguarding historic sites, and encouraging his people to value their traditions, he has placed Ilupeju-Ekiti on the global tourism map,” Amb. Ojo-Lanre declared.
He further praised Oloye Esan Ogunleye for his outstanding contribution to the beautification of the historic Oroke Ewo War Site, noting that such efforts exemplify the community’s commitment to preserving Ekiti’s heritage for future generations.
The DG recalled with admiration the successful hosting of the 2024 World Tourism Day by Ilupeju-Ekiti, adding that this year’s awards were a well-deserved recognition of the town’s cultural vibrancy and hospitality.
In his words, “Tourism thrives where tradition is cherished. Ilupeju-Ekiti has shown that communities can be both proud of their past and open to the opportunities of the future. We salute the Apeju and the entire people of Ilupeju Ekiti for keeping the flame of culture burning.”
The celebration features cultural displays, traditional music, and dances, as the people of Ilupeju-Ekiti rejoiced over their double honours.