Edo moves to transform Somorika, Ososo hills into tourism hubs

…targets jobs, revenue through tourism development

By Shayo Olatonmiwa

The Edo State Tourism Agency has inspected key tourist attractions in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area as part of efforts to develop the sites, attract visitors and boost the state’s economy.

The inspection, led by the agency’s Director-General, Vivian Elabor, covered Somorika Hills, Ososo Hills and Ojirami Dam. The delegation also held discussions with local government officials and traditional leaders on improving tourism infrastructure and site management.

Elabor said the agency was seeking stronger partnerships with local councils, traditional institutions and private investors to develop the attractions and promote them through digital platforms.

She also called for the appointment of tourism liaison officers in local governments to provide regular updates on festivals, cultural events and developments at tourist sites.

According to the agency, developing the tourism sector would create jobs, generate revenue and stimulate economic growth in line with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda and the Federal Government’s Orange Economy initiative.

The Head of Local Government Administration in Akoko-Edo, Iroghama Nosakhare, pledged the council’s support for the initiative but identified poor accessibility, inadequate infrastructure and maintenance challenges as major obstacles to tourism development in the area.

At the Palace of the King of Somorika, Oba Alhaji Suleiman A. T. Idiaye, the delegation received a historical account of the community, including how its people used the surrounding hills as refuge during conflicts.

The agency said sustained collaboration among government, traditional institutions and private investors would be crucial to upgrading the attractions and positioning Akoko-Edo as a major tourism destination.