By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo
The Ogun State Government has taken a major step toward revitalising its tourism sector with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SystemSpecs Whatadeal, a private tourism, lifestyle and technology company, for the takeover and management of the iconic Olumo Rock Tourism Centre in Abeokuta.
The agreement, which was formally executed at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism Development, Okemosan, Abeokuta, signals a new era in the management and development of one of Nigeria’s most historic and symbolic tourist destinations. The signing ceremony was overseen by the Director-General, Office of Public Private Partnerships (PPP), Barrister Dapo Oduwole, alongside the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Kudus Yusuf.
Speaking with journalists after the official handover ceremony at the Olumo Rock tourism complex in Ikija, Abeokuta, Hon. Fagbayi said the partnership was aimed at repositioning the site to meet global tourism standards while improving visitors’ experience and boosting the state’s internally generated revenue.
According to him, the collaboration reflects the state government’s confidence in public-private partnerships as an effective tool for sustainable development, especially in the tourism sector.
“The decision to partner with the private sector aligns with the belief of the Dapo Abiodun-led administration that innovation, efficiency and sustainability are better driven when government creates room for credible private investors,” Fagbayi said. “This partnership will enhance the appeal of Olumo Rock and unlock its full economic potential for Ogun State.”
Also speaking, the Director-General of the Office of Public Private Partnerships, Barr. Dapo Oduwole, described the agreement as a strategic move to position Ogun State as a leading tourism destination in Nigeria and beyond. He expressed confidence in Whatadeal’s capacity to transform Olumo Rock, citing the company’s track record in tourism innovation and technology-driven solutions.
Oduwole added that the state government remains committed to providing an enabling environment for credible investors willing to partner with Ogun State across critical sectors of the economy.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Whatadeal, Mr. Obafela Bank-Olemoh, expressed gratitude to Governor Dapo Abiodun for the trust reposed in the company to manage one of Nigeria’s most treasured heritage sites. He assured that Whatadeal is fully prepared to deploy world-class innovations that will elevate Olumo Rock into a globally competitive tourism destination.
“Our goal is to make Olumo Rock a top-priority destination for both local and international tourists,” Bank-Olemoh said. “We want it to be one of the key reasons people choose to visit Nigeria.”
He revealed that planned upgrades for the site include immersive reality centres, gaming arcades, improved recreational facilities and advanced visitor management systems, all aimed at creating a modern, engaging and memorable tourism experience.
Describing Olumo Rock as one of the most symbolic landmarks in Nigeria and Africa, Bank-Olemoh reaffirmed the company’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while enhancing its appeal through innovation and modern tourism practices.
The partnership marks a significant milestone in Ogun State’s tourism development agenda, reinforcing the government’s drive toward economic diversification, increased revenue generation and positioning the state as a global tourism hub.
