The hospitality sector in Oyo State has witnessed unprecedented growth, driven by Governor ‘Seyi Makinde’s investment in infrastructure and a business-friendly environment.
Westernmirror.com.ng reports that the number of registered hospitality businesses has surged from 1,328 in 2019 to 12,128 in 2025, marking a significant milestone for tourism and investment in the state.
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, revealed during a press conference in Ibadan, the state capital on Monday, February 10, that the rise in hotels, nightclubs, eateries, and event centers is a direct result of the government’s pro-investment policies.
Providing statistical details to corroborate his assertions, the Commissioner said Hotels business witnessed an unprecedented increased from 945 in 2019 to 4,678 in 2025 representing an increase of over 395 percent.
He added that Nightclubs expanded from 78 to 1,898 representing an increase of over 2,333 percent, Event Centers grew from 143 to 1,996, while Eateries and Restaurants witnessed an increase from 62 to 1,852.
He explained further that, in overall, 10,800 new hospitality ventures have emerged, thereby, reinforcing Oyo’s position as a prime destination for business and leisure.
Speaking further, he said tourist visits to Oyo State have skyrocketed, with daily arrivals jumping from 1,604 before 2019 to 18,152 in 2025. He attributed this to enhanced security, modern road networks, and government-backed tourism initiatives.
Dr Olatubosun stated that one of the administration’s flagship projects, tagged: Ibadan Valentine Cruise, set to hold at Eleyele Lake on February 14, 2025, is expected to boost aquatic tourism, generate employment, and strengthen social harmony in the state.
“Before 2019, Oyo State had no structured boat cruise industry, with only wooden canoes operating between Eleyele and Apete. However, under Governor Makinde’s leadership, modern aquatic tourism is now thriving.
“The April 2024 International Tourism Summit has further cemented Oyo’s reputation as a tourism hub, attracting significant investor interest,” Dr Olatubosun said.
Earlier, Dr. Sanni Bamidele, a hospitality business owner in Ibadan, commended the state government for ensuring a secure environment that promotes tourism growth.
He said the Makinde administration’s commitment to infrastructure and economic reforms has made Oyo an attractive destination for both local and international visitors.