Introduction to Travel and Tourism
Tourism is travel for leisure, recreational and business purpose. Tourists can be defined as people who travel to and stay in places outside their usual surroundings for more than twenty-four hours and not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes by the World Tourism Organization. Tourism is a known affair in human life. It has been an industry of vast dimensions and eventually supports economic and social growth. Tourism worldwide has experienced phenomenal growth. With more than 600 million people travelling annually, tourism is the world’s largest industry, with revenues of about half a trillion dollars a year, and averaging five percent annual growth.
My Case Study: Ogun State
Ogun State houses some of the most historically interesting places to visit when on holiday. Even if you are visiting for a short period of time, taking advantage of the opportunity to visit any of these places will totally be worth the while. The State government has also shown a tremendous amount of interest in tourism by renovating and refurbishing tourist sites around the state.
Ogun, being a vast and diverse State comprises of people from allmost every part of the Nation has always something to offer, and its glorious traditions and rich cultural heritage are linked with the development of tourism.
Its magnificent Olumo Rock attracts large numbers of visitors from all over the world. Aside from the Olumo Rock in Abeokuta we other Tourist Attractions. On a trip to any of these tourist attractions in Ogun State, the following should be taken along. A water bottle, sunscreen, a face towel, a camera, a journal, a cell phone, ATM cards should be packed and light clothing is preferable.
The tourism industry has helped growth in other sectors as diverse as horticulture, handicraft, agriculture, construction and even poultry.
Both directly and indirectly, increased tourism in Ogun have created jobs in a variety of related sectors. A large number of people are now working in the Ogun State tourism industry.
Below are the most Popular Tourist Attractions
1. Lisabi Sacred Forest
The history of this forest is deeply intertwined with the history of the warrior it is named after and the people of Egba land. Lisabi fought bravely and tirelessly during the inter-tribal wars that occurred between the Egba people and other tribes. It was said that he went to this forest with a few other warriors and their family to take solace in its depth. Rare bird and plant species can be found in this forest. It is also believed that the remains of this great warrior is still housed in this forest. There is an annual march to Lisabi Forest by the sons and daughters of Egba land to Lisabi forest to commemorate and remember the greatness that was the legend, Lisabi.
2. Olumo Rock
This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa. The city of Olumo derives its name from this rock. Abeokuta meaning “under the rock” is reminiscent of how the sons and daughters of Egba land used this great rock as a fortress during the inter-tribal wars of the 19th century. The rock is recently managed by the state government. The entrance fee into the property is anywhere from ₦700 to ₦1000. There is an art and artifacts shop on the premises and an eatery where guests can buy snacks and relax. There are knowledgeable tour guides on site and guests who are unable to climb the rock can take the elevator or stairs.
3. Itoku Market
This is located very close to Olumo rock. It is a clothing and textile market that carries mostly tie and dye items that are made by the traders. The traders at the market are very personable and jovial and are willing to talk about the tie and dye process and also give maintenance tips. The ‘Adire’ sold there is of very high quality and it is quite affordable. However, the traders can tell a tourist from a local so whatever initial price you are told for an item, offer half and start bargaining from there.
4. Bilikisu Sungbo Shrine
Located in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, the Bilikisu Sungbo Shrine is a set of walls built for defense and also to unite the different tribes in that region. It was built in 800 – 1000 AD in honour of the noble woman, Oloye Bilikisu Sungbo. The walls are currently covered with moss and locals go there to pay homage to her heritage by visiting this shrine. It has gained the attention of some archaeologists and is one of the oldest man-made monuments in West Africa.
5. Ebute Oni Tourist Beach
This beach was first discovered by locals and then the state government stepped in and began reconstruction on site. Chalets, where guests can sleep overnight and wake up to the sound of the ocean, were added as well as other facilities like restaurants, bars and art shops were added. Stalls, where guests can sit with friends and relax, are also on site.
6. Madam Tinubu Shrine
This shrine was built in respect of the first female high chief in all of Yoruba Land. She, the Iyalode of Egba land is still regarded as one of the richest women in African history till date. Born Efunporoye Osuntinubu, she lived from 1810 – 1887 and in that time, she traded in Arms and supplied Abeokuta warriors with arms necessary to win their war with the Dahomey people.
7. Abeokuta Museum
This is one of the places that history lovers flock to. This museum which is at the heart of Abeokuta features arts and artefacts that tell a story of Prehistoric Nigeria, war relations and strategy amongst the Yoruba warriors, specifically the legendary warriors of Egba land and many more. There are curators on site to take guests around and also provide information about any item that piques one’s interest.
8. June 12 Cultural Centre Kuto
Located in the heart of Kuto, this cultural centre was built in remembrance of the activities that took place during the political elections of June 12, 1993. It houses a convention centre, a swimming pool, an amusement park and a cinema for viewing movies. Also, the annual week-long Ake Books and Art Festival organised by the Book Buzz foundation is hosted at the June 12 Cultural Centre. The centre also boasts a lively nightlife as the onsite bar and club is very functional from 7:00 pm.
9. Osuuru Water Springs
Situated in the Imeko/ Afron local government area, the Osuuru Water Springs flows in torrents from a rocky hill. It drains down onto a flat surface and then into a valley. The area is very relaxing and guests can come here to take beautiful nature-inspired pictures, relax and have a picnic with friends and family on the grasslands beside the Water Springs.
10. Centenary Hall
The Centenary Hall which was built in 1950 is a monument that was erected to commemorate the peace that reigned in Abeokuta due to the absence of inter-tribal wars. It is located opposite the Alake of Ake’s palace, another historically important place.
11. Palace of the Alake of Egba land
The Alake’s Palace houses the first Bible brought by the missionaries to Nigeria. It also holds other important cultural items. The Alake is the Custodian of the history of the people of Egba land and this is his abode. At the entrance of the palace, the wordings “Alake Ti Ile Egba” which means “The Palace of the Alake of Egba land” is boldly inscribed.
12. Saam Health Farm and Holiday Resort
Saam Health Farm and Holiday Resort are located at Ajitele town, along Idi-roko road. This holiday resort is one of the best spots to visit and stay with family and friends. It boasts a very serene ambience and atmosphere. There are a few recreational activities that guests can partake in. There is a pool for swimming and fishing rods for fishing at the local river. There are also exciting activities like horseback riding and boat riding.
13. Palace of the Olowu of Owu
Although the Owu people are originally from Oyo, they migrated to Abeokuta ad made it their ancestral home. The Palace of the Olowu of Owu is a monument that holds so many historical artefacts and relics of past Olowus.
14. Yemoji Natural Swimming Pool
This swimming pool is located in the Yemoji Tourist Centre which is situated a few kilometres from Ijebu Ode Township. The pool is a very refreshing place to take a dip after a long day. It is one of nature’s wonders that are situated in Ogun State.
15. Iwopin Boat Regatta
Some festivals are celebrated at this boat regatta. It is an interesting spot to visit and take boat rides. It is located at Iwopin, Ogun Waterside, Ogun State.
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