Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has announced plans to upgrade facilities around the Ado Awaye Suspended Lake to enhance its appeal to investors and promote development in the state’s tourism sector.
The governor made this commitment during the closing ceremony of the 2024 Iyake International Festival, the fourth edition of the event, held on Saturday at the Festival Arena, Tourism Development Center, located at the foot of Ado Mountain in Ado Awaye.
Represented by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, Governor Makinde highlighted the economic potential of the Iyake Suspended Lake, which is known as the only natural suspended lake in the world. He emphasized that investing in tourist centers could significantly boost the socio-economic development of Oyo State.
“We recognize the unique qualities of the Iyake Suspended Lake and understand its revenue-generating potential,” said Makinde. “Our administration is committed to creating conducive environments for businesses to thrive, ensuring that we leave a sustainable legacy for future governments. We invite investors to partner with us for the expansion of our state’s economy.”
Governor Makinde underscored the importance of the festival in raising awareness about the lake. “Few people knew about Iyake when we took office, and we have made it our mission to create awareness in collaboration with the Alado of Ado Awaye. Establishing this festival annually serves to celebrate both the lake and the culture of Ado Awaye.”
He added, “We aim to attract investors who are willing to contribute financially to develop the tourism site further.”
Honourable Dele Adeola, a member of the Oyo State House of Assembly representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju, commended the state government for allocating funds to enhance the Iyake Suspended Lake’s facilities in the 2025 Budget. He encouraged private investors to explore opportunities at the site.
Traditional rulers including the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Oyebola Adeyeri, and the Ona-Onibudo of Igboho, Oba AbdulRasheed Adetoyese Anikulapo Jayeola, praised Governor Makinde’s efforts to uplift cultural and tourism sites for the state’s economic growth. They called upon citizens to preserve their traditions while urging investors to contribute to ongoing developmental initiatives.
Oba Rev’d Ademola Folakanmi Olugbile Makunledoye II, the Alado of Ado Awaye, expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde for his impactful achievements and reassured potential investors of the profitability of their investments.
Mr. Bola Olalere, the chairman of the festival’s planning committee, highlighted the festival’s goal to celebrate the Iyake Suspended Lake and other attractions on Ado Mountain. He called for further investment in the physical development of the tourism site to elevate it to a world-class destination.
