What began as a routine official visit for collaboration in Ondo State has crystalized into a defining moment for Nigeria’s tourism narrative, as the Director-General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, paid an unscheduled visit to the Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort in Ekiti State, an experience that could be described as very inspiring and challenging.
It is a good story and testament to visionary governance, effective public-private partnership that speaks volume of the untapped potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector.
Tourism has increasingly emerged as a critical platform for revenue generation, job creation, and sustainable societal development across the globe.
In line with this reality, Government, Corporate entity and individuals have continued to invest in tourism sectors across the globe to expand their economic base and as a tool for global competitiveness.
Nigeria, widely regarded as the giant of Africa, is not left out as several states and Corporate Organizations adopt this strategic initiative to strengthen domestic tourism as well as diversify the economy.
The recent visit by the management team of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), led by our amiable Director-General and Chief Executive, Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, to Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort in Ekiti State is a reference in this regard.
The visit was undertaken for first hand knowledge of the resort’s transformation and possible areas of collaboration, particularly where space science and technology can be deployed for desired results.
The visit by the NASRDA management team was originally set out to the capital city of the Sunshine State, Akure but trust the NASRDA Boss who believes in using one stone to kill two or more birds.
Shortly after his successful meeting with the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Dr Adepoju navigated his way along with members of his team to neighboring Ekiti state where the historic and much publicized Ikogosi Warm Spring is located.
The Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort is a unique natural spring resort and global focus where warm and cold waters flow side by side and confluence with each other, maintaining its thermal properties.
With this development, what was initially conceived as a short leisure stop by the ever inquisitive and dynamic NASRDA Boss immediately became a profound encounter with the impact of purposeful leadership and strategic transformation in the tourism sector.
As soon as Dr Adepoju made up his mind on this mission, the Agency’s Director of Media and Corporate Communications, Dr. Felix Ale, with the support of Director of Space Transport and Propulsion, Epe swung into action by liaising with the Director-General of Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre who responded promptly by mobilizing its team to receive the NASRDA delegation and provide a comprehensive tour of the state’s flagship tourism asset.
Welcoming the delegation, Barrister Ojo-Lanre outlined what he described as the administration’s political will, clear policy direction, and confidence in private sector efficiency.
According to him, these factors have been instrumental in repositioning Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort into one of Nigeria’s most compelling and globally competitive eco-tourism destinations.
The NASRDA team was later taken on an extensive tour of the resort by the Communication and Community Relations Manager, High Chief Ayo Ademiluwa.
Facilities visited included luxury accommodation units, restaurant services, conference halls, the tree house, the presidential suite, and the world-famous convergence point of the warm and cold springs.
Visibly impressed by the experience, Dr. Adepoju described Ikogosi as exceptional, citing its serene ambience, world class facilities, quality cuisine, and professional hospitality delivered by Glocient Hospitality, the concessionaire managing the resort.
In a moment that underscored his admiration, the NASRDA boss removed his shoes and walked through the convergence point of the warm and cold springs, personally experiencing one of nature’s rare wonders.
Members of the NASRDA team took turns to share similar sentiments with Dr Adepoju.
Prof. Joseph Akinyede praised the culinary excellence at the resort, while Dr. John Momoh described Ikogosi as a destination every Nigerian should experience.
Dr. Felix Ale commended the warmth and professionalism of the staff while Dr. Nelson Ibigbami rated the resort as the best he had visited, and Dr. Festus Olatoyinbo highlighted the significant investment committed by Glocient Hospitality in restoring the resort to global standards.
At the conclusion of the visit, Dr. Adepoju requested Barrister Ojo-Lanre to convey the Agency's willingness to collaborate with the State government to reposition Ekiti State on Nigeria’s tourism map.
While emphasizing on NASRDA’s willingness for a sustained collaboration with the Ekiti State Government, Adepoju further revealed that the Agency would give serious consideration to Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort as a potential venue for its forthcoming management retreat.
According to him, the visit has permanently reshaped his perception of Nigerian tourism, serving as clear evidence that when visionary governance meets strategic planning and natural endowments are properly harnessed, world class tourism outcomes are achievable within the country.
Below are pictures from the visit:
Reporter: Daniel Abdullahi
Editor: Kaneng Dagyeng
Media and Corporate Communication NASRDA.
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