Abiodun inaugurates renovated Olumo Rock Tourism Complex

…declares free entry for 2 months

As part of efforts to promote tourism and culture in Ogun State, the famous Olumo Rock Tourist Centre in Abeokuta will be open to members of the public free of charge from now until the end of September this year.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, who made the announcement on Thursday at the commissioning of the newly renovated Tourist Complex, said the gesture is to encourage people to embrace tourism as well as appreciate the richness of their culture.

Olumo Rock, the governor noted, is more than a majestic outcrop or an assemblage of stones; it represents a sanctuary of strength, a symbol of refuge, and an identity for a people.

While declaring the State a foremost destination of choice, Governor Abiodun beckoned to tourists around the world to come to the State and experience its tourist attractions, adding that the Olumo Rock Tourism Complex has undergone a total renovation and is now equipped with a world-class arts gallery and restaurants.

He said: “This renovation has transformed Olumo Rock from a historic relic into a modern heritage destination. From an economic standpoint, this revitalized complex is a tourism magnet. Entrepreneur zones have been provided for artisans, vendors, and creatives to showcase their talents and benefit from growing visitor traffic. This centre will boost local commerce, empower our youths, and build a thriving cultural and creative economy.

“Socially, Olumo Rock reminds us of who we are: a people of strength, a people of courage, a people of ingenuity, and a people of unity. Spiritually, it connects us with our roots and reaffirms the values that we find in our collective identity. It stands as a cultural invitation to the world.”

His administration’s goal, Governor Abiodun stated, is to establish tourist sites across the state, assuring that the renovated Olumo Rock Tourist Complex would be concessioned to a reputable organization for its proper upkeep.

In his remarks, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, revealed that the Rock, in the olden days, served as a sanctuary for the Egba people and was also used as a military observation post by local militias who defended the town from invaders.

The Chief Executive Officer of Nike Arts Gallery, Chief (Mrs) Nike Okundaye, expressed optimism that the renovation of the Complex would lead to an increase in tourism traffic from around the world, assuring that a wide range of unquantifiable services would be offered to both local and foreign tourists and visitors.