The governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has reiterated that tourism is still a key component of his administration’s economic plan.
The governor praised the project as a major milestone during his remarks at the Kunle Afolayan Productions (KAP) film village and resort’s opening on Saturday.
Makinde also emphasised the resort’s significance for the state’s infrastructure development.
“Tourism remains a cornerstone of our economic strategy. This project is a testament to our vision and our determination to make Oyo State a hub for tourism and cultural heritage. What a remarkable feat this is for my brother, Kunle Afolayan, the visionary whose project has brought us all together,” he said.
“This particular project speaks directly to the heart of everything we are working towards in this state, particularly our drive for infrastructural development and the expansion of our economy through key growth sectors, including tourism.”
Makinde directed the Itesiwaju local government authorities to promptly begin rehabilitating the Okaka-Igbojaye road to enhance better access to the resort.
He also revealed plans to construct a solar mini-grid and extend a dedicated electricity line from Okaka to the facility, ensuring reliable power supply by December.
The governor praised Afolayan for the “value that the resort has brought to the state” despite the filmmaker not being an indigene.
“Itesiwaju Local Government will fix the road from this film village all the way to Okaka. I will approve the cost of building the road in earnest. I will talk to the commissioner for energy to put in here a solar mini-grid,” he said.
“Second, even if we have to take a direct electricity line from Okaka, which is only 23 kilometres away, to be dedicated to this place, we will do it. I will be here around Christmas, and there must be a reliable electricity supply to this place by the time I come.
“This KAP Film Village is a testament that we are achieving the vision. This project represents a big win for Oyo State. Kunle Afolayan is not from Oyo State, but see what he has done in the state.
“For us in Oyo State, we want everyone that can add value to our state. So, no matter where you are from, please come and invest in Oyo State.”