EPE News

Surah Animashaun, Oloja Of Epe, Tourism Minister Lola Ade-John Spotlight Epe’s Cultural Legacy On World Heritage Day

Published

8 months ago

Apr 16, 2024.

3-day training program for Epe’s tour operators and guides organized by NIHOTOUR
Visit to Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun’s Palace and Epe’s heritage sites by Minister Lola Ade-John
Commitment from Minister to document Epe’s history and support preservation of iconic landmarks

Eko Hot Blog reports that the ancient town of Epe was the center of attention this World Heritage Day as local authorities rolled out the red carpet to showcase the region’s rich cultural and historical treasures.

The celebrations were graced by the presence of the Honorable Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John, who pledged support to transform Epe into a premier tourism destination.

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The festivities kicked off with a three-day training program organized by the Ministry of Tourism, in partnership with the National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) for Epe’s tour operators and guides. Led by industry experts, participants received invaluable skills in tourism management, destination marketing, and quality service delivery.

“This training was a critical step in empowering our local tourism professionals to effectively showcase Epe’s unique heritage to visitors,” said Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun, the Executive Chairman of Epe Local Government.

The training culminated in a site visit, where participants explored Epe’s iconic landmarks, including the Oju Alaro Shrine, Oluwo Fish Market, Obaluwaye Shrine, and Ojubo Aleke, providing them with first-hand experience of the town’s rich cultural tapestry.

The highlight of the celebrations was the visit of the Honorable Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John. Her first stop was the palace of Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun, the traditional ruler of Epe Land. The Oba proudly shared the community’s remarkable history, particularly its pivotal role in abolishing the slave trade. He also captivated the Minister with descriptions of Epe’s unique natural wonders, such as the mystical Olugbekere and the ancient fish species found nowhere else.

While Minister Ade-John did not get a chance to tour specific cultural landmarks like the historic post office and the legendary Sugbon Eredo tunnel network, she expressed keen interest in exploring them during a future visit.

“I am truly amazed by the wealth of cultural and natural heritage that Epe has to offer,” remarked Mrs. Ade-John. “The Ministry of Tourism is committed to partnering with the local government to bring these treasures to the forefront and transform Epe into a premier tourism destination.”

The Minister pledged to work closely with Epe authorities to document the community’s history, especially its role in ending the slave trade, and to support the preservation and promotion of its iconic sites and landmarks.

Mr. Abdulkareem Oladapo Balogun, Head of Unit for Tourism and Local Government Heritage Maintenance in Epe Local Government, expressed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts during the celebration.

He highlighted the significance of preserving Epe’s heritage and promoting it as a premier tourism destination in Nigeria, with the support of the Federal Ministry of Tourism.

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