The aim of this Tourism Masterplan for Ekiti State is to create a sustainable tourism industry that will benefit both local and international visitors. This masterplan will focus on the potential of the state as a destination for eco-tourism, cultural tourism, adventure tourism, sport tourism, and business tourism.
1. Develop and Maintain Sustainable Eco-Tourism Sites:
Ekiti State should research and identify potential eco-tourism sites in the state, and develop these sites in a way that allows them to be maintained and utilized for long periods of time. These sites should focus on conservation and preservation of natural resources, ensure the protection of the environment, and highlight the biodiversity of the area. These eco-tourism sites should also be marketed to the international community, in order to encourage increased tourism to the state.
2. Promote Cultural Tourism:
Ekiti State should promote its unique cultural heritage and history through museums, festivals and other cultural activities. These activities should be used to promote the state to international tourists, giving them a look into the culture and traditions of the area. Furthermore, cultural tours and workshops should be organized to provide visitors with an interactive experience they can appreciate and remember.
3. Foster Adventure and Sport Tourism:
Ekiti State should capitalize on its scenic landscape and abundance of wildlife to create and promote adventure and sport tourism. The state should attempt to attract tourists from all around the world by offering various activities that promote outdoor exploration, such as trekking, mountain biking, bird watching, canoeing, and fishing.
4. Focus on Business Tourism:
Ekiti State should capitalize on its transportation infrastructure, large population and strong economy to attract business tourists. This can be done by supporting and promoting events such as conferences, meetings, and other business activities. Furthermore, the state should use its existing network of hotels, restaurants, and other services to provide quality accommodations and amenities for business travelers.
5. Implement Marketing Initiatives:
It is important that Ekiti State implement marketing initiatives to promote the state and its tourism destinations. This can be done by using advertising campaigns, social media campaigns, and public relations campaigns. Furthermore, the state should create targeted campaigns aimed at specific audiences, in order to maximize the impact of its marketing initiatives.
By taking the above recommendations into consideration, Ekiti State can develop and maintain a sustainable tourism industry that will benefit both local and international visitors. With a focus on eco-tourism, cultural tourism, adventure tourism, sports tourism, and business tourism, the state can become an attractive destination for tourists from all around the world