Ibadan: The Oyo State Government is set to organise the first-ever Ibadan Valentine Cruise on Eleyele Lake on Friday, Feb. 14. The state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun, stated that the Valentine Cruise aims to promote peace, love, friendship, admiration, and tolerance among residents and visitors in the state.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the cruise, done in conjunction with Royal Entertainment Cruise, will also promote aquatic tourism, create employment opportunities, and boost the income and economy of the state. The commissioner noted that the present administration had succeeded in promoting an atmosphere conducive for tourism to thrive.
He disclosed that the state government had registered 12,128 hospitality outfits for proper monitoring and coordination of their activities. Olatunbosun explained that the registered hospitality ventures comprise hotels, nightclubs, event centres, eateries/restaurants, and tour operators. He highlighted that the number rose from 1,328 in December 2019 to 12,128 in February 2025, a growth achieved under the conducive environment created for investors by the Seyi Mankinde-led administration.
Earlier in his address, the Chief Executive Officer of Royal Entertainment Cruise, Dr Sanni Bamidele, mentioned that his company decided to collaborate with the state government to boost tourism. Bamidele noted that there are various tourist attraction sites in Oyo State, with the state making strides in tourism development.
He commended the efforts of the state government in developing and promoting culture and tourism in the state. Bamidele assured intending participants of adequate security and the availability of safety equipment during the cruise, adding that the event would offer different positive experiences.