As Efon-Alaaye Prepares to Host the World
By Editor
In what promises to be another enthralling Easter experience for the people of Ekiti and beyond, the Bureau of Touurism Development Ekiti State, has lined up a spectacular tourism package known as ‘Hike and Dine in the Clouds’ as it unveiled sponsors of the 7th edition of Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari.
The Bureau, in a world press conference held in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday, highlights the significance of the high octane event as the whole world is expected to relocate to Efon-Alaaye, the host community for the memorable event on April 21, 2025.
The DG Bureau of Touurism Development Ekiti State, Amb. Wale Ojo -Lanre in his opening address, emphasized the significance of Easter Monday as symbolic in all ramifications.
According to him; “Easter signifies renewal, rebirth, hope and a fresh beginning. It is a time for reflection and rejuvenation”
He noted that the best way to savour the beauties of the above values is to journey to the summit of Ekiti highest peak- the Mount of Clouds in Efon-Alaaye where according to him,-“the earth kisses the sky and nature embraces the soul”.
He added that walking through the cool mist and lush greenery of the Mountain of Clouds will both invigorate the body and uplift the spirit.
The foremost tourism impresario lauded Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji whose focused drive to unlock the tourism potentials of a number of Ekiti communities such as Efon-Alaaye, Ipole-Iloro, Ikogosi, ilawe axis gave birth to this initiative adding that the Governor’s belief in tourism as a tool for community transformation has continued to inspire the work of Ekiti Bureau of Touurism Development.
He stressed that the event is made possible by the dynamic partnership between his Bureau, the Discover Ekiti Tourism Club and the welcoming people of Efon-Alaaye under His Royal Majesty, Oba Emmanuel Adesanya Adejare Agunsoye 11, Alayemore the Alaaye of Efon Kingdom.
While acknowledging that over 2000 hikers are expected at the carnival-like event, the DG announced that picnickers would enjoy a 20% hotel discounts suggesting the level of preparation by the Efon- Alaaye community baring in mind the anticipated economic impact of over N50m accruing to hoteliers, transporters artisans, food vendors amongst others.
Other side attractions expected to add glitz and glamour to the event are invited Nollywood stars and musical legends of Ekiti origin.
Ojo-Lanre used the occasion to unveil the arrays of esteemed sponsors of the event including: Adding Homes, Volki, Sterling Bank, Fure Bio Water, Rites Food, Guinea Wood Factory.
Others include; Dan Pharmacy, Mrs Peju Babafemi, Olu-Olu Food Company amongst others.
Speaking earlier, the SA to the DG on Tourism Development, Micheal Ekiran who doubles as the team lead of Discover Ekiti traced the birth of Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari to 2018 the seventh edition which is dubbed, ‘Hike and Dine in the Clouds’ holding on Easter Monday at Efon-Alaaye.
Ekiran who appreciated the DG Bureau of Touurism Development for his support and encouragement in the successful hosting of the previous editions, however assured participants of an exciting time as measures have been put in place for their maximum comfort in terms of security, welfare, medicals and transportation.
