By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.

The Ogun State Government has entered into a strategic partnership with SystemSpecs Whatadeal, a private tourism, lifestyle, and technology company, for the management and development of the historic Olumo Rock Tourism Centre in Abeokuta.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism Development, Okemosan, Abeokuta, under the supervision of the Director-General, Office of Public Private Partnerships (PPP), Barrister Dapo Oduwole; the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi; and the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Kudus Yusuf.

Speaking with journalists after the official handover ceremony at the Olumo Rock Tourism Complex in Ikija, Abeokuta, Hon. Fagbayi explained that the partnership is designed to enhance the tourism site’s attractiveness, improve visitor experience, and increase the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) through an effective public-private partnership arrangement.

He noted that the initiative reflects the state government’s belief in the private sector as a key driver of innovation, sustainability, and growth, particularly in tourism development.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Office of PPP, Barrister Dapo Oduwole, described the agreement as a significant step toward positioning Ogun State as a competitive tourism destination. He expressed confidence in Whatadeal’s proven capacity for tourism innovation, adding that the company is well-equipped to reposition Olumo Rock as a globally appealing attraction.

Oduwole further reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for credible investors to partner with Ogun State in critical sectors of the economy.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of Whatadeal, Mr. Obafela Bank-Olemoh, thanked Governor Dapo Abiodun for the confidence reposed in the company to manage one of Nigeria’s most iconic heritage sites. He assured that Whatadeal is prepared to introduce world-class innovations to enhance the tourism experience at Olumo Rock.

Bank-Olemoh revealed that planned upgrades include immersive reality centres, gaming arcades, improved recreational facilities, and modern visitor management systems aimed at raising the site’s global appeal.

Describing Olumo Rock as one of the most symbolic tourism landmarks in Nigeria and Africa, he said the company’s goal is to elevate its standards and make it a must-visit destination for both local and international tourists.

The partnership marks a new phase in the development of Olumo Rock and underscores Ogun State’s commitment to tourism growth, economic diversification, and global competitiveness.