By: Adeyemi Elijah.
The Director-General of the Edo State Tourism Agency, Mrs. Vivian Elabor, said the state is now fully ready to showcase the heritage of edo state to the world.
Elabor during the press briefing in benin express the state government desire to enhance social and economic development in tourism in the state where jobs and awareness for development of the state tourism will be quickly taped by various investors. She expressed concern that many of the moats are currently being used as refuse dumps, despite their historical and cultural significance.
According to her, the agency is committed to educating the public on the importance of preserving the moats, which were originally constructed by the ancestors to protect communities.
“Today, many people do not appreciate the value of the moats. The outside world understands the importance of preserving tourist sites, and we want our people to have the same understanding,” she said.
She emphasized that the agency is working tirelessly to restore and preserve the moats as part of Edo State’s rich cultural heritage.
“There will be stiff penalties for anyone caught disposing of waste in the moats. We must preserve our heritage and restore the legacy of the moats,” she added.
The Director-General noted that Edo State is blessed with numerous tourist attractions, with about 72 tourism sites spread across the state. She stressed that these sites remain largely underutilized and have great potential for economic growth.
She further stated that the agency intends to use tourism as a tool for job creation and to boost the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
“Edo State must reduce its dependence on allocations from the centre. Tourism has a critical role to play in driving economic development, and we are determined to make Edo a leading tourism destination,” she said.
She revealed that the agency’s upcoming summit, is aimed at promoting the state’s rich culture and heritage.
Notable tourist attractions and cultural festivals highlighted were Igun Street, the Igue Festival, the Ososo Festival, the Ubiaja Festival, and the Amar Waterfall in Esanland.
speaking further, the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mrs. Kushe Ojekhoa, announced that the 2026 Tourism Summit, Exhibition, and Fashion Show will hold from June 29 to June 30.
She added that winners of the fashion show will receive cash prizes of N500,000 for first prize while N300,000 for the second run up and N250,000 for third run up, while all participants will be rewarded with participation fees to encourage creativity and support emerging talents.
