The Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatubosun, has reiterated that sports tourism is a critical component of Governor Seyi Makinde’s economic development agenda, aimed at boosting the state’s economy through strategic investments in tourism and hospitality.

Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday ahead of the 2025 Oluyole Golf Tournament, slated for August 22 to 24, Dr. Olatubosun said Governor Makinde has laid down key infrastructure, security frameworks, and tourism policies that position Oyo as a destination for sports-related tourism and investment.

He explained that sporting activities—particularly golf tournaments—are potent drivers of economic activity, attracting large numbers of visitors who patronise hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, and other local businesses.

Sport is part of our tourism class that brings people to a state. The Oluyole Golf Tournament is not just about golf, it is about growing the economy,” Olatubosun said. “People will lodge in our hotels, visit tourist sites, wine and dine in our restaurants, and experience the transformation Governor Makinde has brought to the state.”

The commissioner lauded the efforts of the event’s organiser, Mr. Folarin Laosun, for his consistent support of culture and tourism in the state, adding that Laosun also played a significant role in the success of the recent World Egungun Festival held in Ibadan.

He further commended Governor Makinde’s administration for its robust security and infrastructure development, noting that these “success indicators” have made Oyo one of the safest and most accessible states in Nigeria.

“Security is a major enabler of tourism. People are coming to Oyo State today because they feel safe. Governor Makinde has implemented a reliable security architecture. In addition, our roads are among the best in the country, and the upgrading of the Ladoke Akintola Airport to international standard will bring even more visitors,” he added.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Ibadan Golf Club, Mr. Seyi Alaba, thanked the Oyo State Government for its continued support, saying that golf remains a powerful tool for promoting investment and showcasing the state’s hospitality potential.

In his remarks, Mr. Folarin Laosun, the convener of the tournament, revealed that the 4th edition of the Oluyole Amateur Golf Tournament will feature 120 to 150 players from across the country and will be held over three days, unlike the previous single-day editions.

“This tournament has grown significantly. It started as a one-day event four years ago, and now we are hosting a two-day amateur open tournament. This is a major leap for the golfing community,” he said.

Laosun also disclosed plans to expand its business operations into Oyo State, citing the state’s investment-friendly environment.

“We are exploring the possibility of setting up an assembly plant here. Oyo State is a fertile ground for industrial growth, and we want to be part of its economic transformation,” he stated.

The 2025 Oluyole Amateur Golf Tournament is expected to bring golf enthusiasts, investors, and tourists from across Nigeria to Ibadan, contributing significantly to the state’s economy and reinforcing its reputation as a top destination for sports tourism.