•As Afuye unveils Ugele–Iho Oloko cave, Ikere Ekiti
Mountain and cave hiking are significant not merely as recreational pursuits, but as essential avenues for profound personal renewal and deep connection with the natural world. These activities act as an antidote to the stresses of modern urban life, offering a therapeutic escape that rejuvenates the mind, body, and soul through the physical challenge of navigating rugged terrains and the awe-inspiring experience of exploring subterranean wonders. By immersing individuals in pristine, often untouched landscapes, these adventures foster a deeper environmental awareness and conservation mindset, making them crucial for both personal well-being and the appreciation of Earth’s biodiversity.
From a tourism development perspective, hiking and caving act as powerful catalysts for economic growth, particularly in remote, marginalised, or mountainous regions. Mountain tourism accounts for approximately 15–20 percent of the global tourism industry, generating substantial revenues and providing employment opportunities for local communities through guided treks, eco-lodges, and cultural hospitality. Furthermore, caving—or geotourism—promotes the development of infrastructure and turns specialised natural resources into sustainable income generators, improving the living standards of host communities and enhancing the socio-economic wellbeing of rural areas.
Ultimately, fostering mountain and cave tourism encourages the diversification of local economies, helping to reduce dependency on traditional, non-sustainable industries while promoting the preservation of local culture and food systems. When managed sustainably, this sector thrives on the “slow tourism” trend, attracting environmentally conscious travelers and providing year-round economic benefits that combat the seasonality of other tourism forms. By investing in infrastructure and responsible management, mountain and cave hiking becomes a cornerstone of sustainable, inclusive growth, unlocking the untapped potential of these unique landscapes while ensuring their protection for future generations.
Making this one of the pillar and essence of its tourism agendas, the administration of governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has taken hiking, mountaineering and revered cave settlement in the state to the next level, tying around the value chain of tourism to create jobs, generate streams of income for domestic tourism individual that see the safari segment market as a business.
However, the Ekiti State government has taken another bold step in advancing tourism development agenda with the official unveiling of the Ugele–Iho Oloko Cave (Ugele Rock Shelter Settlement) in Ikere Ekiti, a historic and natural heritage asset located behind the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter’s.
The unveiling ceremony, which coincided with the 8th Edition of Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari, attracted an array of dignitaries, stakeholders, and tourism enthusiasts from within and outside the state.
Representing the governor Oyebanji, the deputy governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, declared the site open, reiterating the administration’s unwavering commitment to developing tourism as a strategic economic pillar capable of generating revenue, creating jobs, and stimulating grassroots prosperity.
Delivering the governor’s message, Afuye emphasised that Ekiti is deliberately repositioning its rich cultural, historical, and ecological assets to compete favourably in both national and global tourism markets. She noted that the unveiling of Ugele–Iho Oloko Cave is a clear demonstration of the government’s resolve to unlock hidden treasures across communities for economic transformation.
She congratulated the people of Ikere Ekiti, particularly the Olotin Quarter, for being the fortunate custodians of such a remarkable heritage site, describing the development as a rare opportunity that places the community at the forefront of Ekiti’s emerging tourism map.
The deputy governor further admonished residents to embrace a culture of hospitality, urging them to be warm, friendly, and accommodating to visitors. According to her, the sustainability and success of any tourism destination largely depend on the disposition of the host community.
She also commended the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, and his team, alongside members of Discover Ekiti Tourism Club, for their visionary leadership, dedication, and strategic efforts in discovering, packaging, and promoting the site as a viable tourism product.
In his address, the Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado, brought a profound cultural perspective to the unveiling, emphasising that tourism sites such as the Ugele–Iho Oloko Cave are not mere physical attractions, but sacred repositories of history, identity, and ancestral memory. The monarch noted that such heritage assets serve as bridges between the past and the present, preserving the traditions, values, and stories of the people for future generations. He stressed that when properly developed, tourism sites become powerful instruments for cultural diplomacy, community pride, and economic empowerment. The Ogoga, therefore, called for collective responsibility among government, stakeholders, and the host community to protect, promote, and sustain the sanctity of the site.
In his remarks, former presidential aide, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, described the unveiling as a significant milestone in Ekiti’s tourism journey. Drawing comparisons with a similar cave he recently visited in Ethiopia, he asserted that the Ugele Rock possesses even greater aesthetic and tourism potential. He therefore called on both the government and the host community to deploy innovative ideas and investments that would transform the site into a world-class tourist destination.
Also speaking, the chairman of Ikere West LCDA, Honourable Rufus Ige Olorunfemi, expatriated on the profound cultural, historical, and heritage significance of the Ugele–Iho Oloko Cave. He described the rock shelter as an ancient settlement with unique geological formations and cultural narratives that reflect the identity and history of the Ikere people. He assured that the local government would continue to collaborate with stakeholders to preserve, protect, and develop the site sustainably.
In a related remark, the chairman of Ikere Local Government, Squadron Leader Olu Adamolekun (retd.), declared emphatically that tourism has come to stay in the state. He described the unveiling as a clear indication that the state has embraced tourism as a serious driver of development, noting that the synergy between government initiatives and community participation would ensure long-term socio-economic benefits.
In a reassuring note to visitors and stakeholders, community leader Chief Awe, the revered custodian of the Ugele Rock, affirmed the community’s commitment to the safety and preservation of the site. He assured tourists and investors alike that adequate measures have been put in place to guarantee security, protect the natural environment, and maintain the cultural integrity of the rock shelter. He emphasized that the host community fully understands the value of the heritage entrusted to them and remains committed to safeguarding it for sustainable tourism development.
In a significant highlight of the event, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Barrister Ojo-Lanre, conferred the honour of Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development Ambassador on Kay Bobo, the Ekiti-born former housemate of BBNaija. The conferment was in recognition of his growing influence among Nigerian youths and his potential to project Ekiti’s tourism assets to wider audiences. The DG noted that engaging cultural and entertainment influencers is a strategic move to deepen visibility, attract younger demographics, and position Ekiti as a vibrant destination in Nigeria’s tourism landscape.
The event was also graced by former presidential aide, Senator Babafemi Ojudu; Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Dolamu Adeniyi; Dr Sayo Olowookere, President, ATPN Ekiti State Chapter, the representative of BOUESTI Vice Chancellor Professor Dayo Daramola, Dean of Students Affairs, Dr Charles Oyelami, Geology Department and other top government officials, traditional leaders, and tourism stakeholders.
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The unveiling also formed part of activities for the Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari, which drew a large turnout of adventure seekers and eco-tourism enthusiasts who began arriving as early as 8a.m., to explore the scenic terrain and unique rock formations of the site—an indication of the growing appeal of Ekiti as a hub for eco and adventure tourism.
Stakeholders at the event unanimously agreed that the unveiling of Ugele–Iho Oloko Cave marked a milestone in Ekiti State’s broader strategy to harness its abundant natural and cultural assets for sustainable tourism development.
With its unique structure, historical depth, and scenic appeal, the site is now positioned as a budding flagship attraction capable of boosting local economy and enhancing the state’s tourism profile.
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