NTDA Targets UNESCO Recognition for Lagos’ Historic Iroko Tree, Plans World-Class Tourism Hub
By Taiwo Olapade
The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has expressed its determination to transform the site of the over 100-year-old Iroko Tree in Igbobi-Sabe Kingdom, within Yaba LCDA, Lagos, into a major international tourist centre.
It also stated that deliberate efforts are being made to maximise the potential of the tourism and hospitality industry by contributing significantly to the country’s revenue generation.
The Director-General of the NTDA, Dr. Olayiwola Awakan, made this known during a courtesy and strategic visit to the palace of the Oba Onisabe of Igbobi-Sabe Kingdom, Oba Owolabi Adeyemi Adeniyi, in the Jibowu area of Lagos.
Awakan noted that the tourism sector holds immense potential to transform the fortunes of the country. He assured that efforts would be made to secure formal recognition from UNESCO for the Iroko Tree and the Gelede masquerade, which is prominent in the area.
The NTDA boss, who observed the challenges arising from a lack of intentional promotion of the sector and the absence of a unified voice, called on stakeholders across the tourism value chain to collaborate, noting that the industry is largely private sector-driven.
He also identified a lack of continuity in policy implementation as a major setback to the sector.
Dr. Awakan further pointed out that tourism is community-based, as most tourism sites are located within local communities, stressing that traditional institutions must be actively involved.
According to him, the mandate from the President to the NTDA is to effectively market the country and regulate the tourism sector to achieve its full potential.
He added that one of the authority’s priority policies is the reform of tour guards across the country, including the introduction of culturally symbolic uniforms such as Adire for visitors.
Earlier, the Oba Onisabe of Igbobi-Sabe Kingdom, Oba Owolabi Adeyemi Adeniyi, expressed delight at receiving the NTDA team at his palace, noting that the visit would help strengthen existing partnerships and promote culture and tradition.
He explained that the kingdom still retains many symbolic structures and institutions, despite the impact of colonial rule on much of its land.
The monarch also highlighted the cultural significance of the Gelede masquerade, tracing its roots to Ketu and noting that it was traditionally performed to support women experiencing delays in childbirth.
Oba Owolabi Adeniyi appealed for greater support to elevate the status of the Gelede masquerade and the Iroko Tree, leveraging the expertise and cultural knowledge available.
At the Iroko Tree site in Igbobi, Yaba, the traditional ruler further called for concerted efforts to give the historic site a facelift.
In her remarks, Olori Mosunmola Owolabi Adeniyi expressed appreciation to the Director-General and his entourage for prioritising engagement with key stakeholders, including the palace.
