The Oyo State Government has expressed readiness to partner with investors who believe in the economic drive of the Seyi Makinde administration.

The Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who led the team from the ministry to the Royal Entertainment Cruise Resort at Eleyele, disclosed this in Ibadan.

The facility features a range of attractions, including a paintball arena, a children’s play area, a snooker hall, a boat-cruise dock with several boats, speedboats, and a relaxation area that offers visitors a complete fun experience.

Speaking during the visit, Prince Dotun Oyelade praised the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Sanmi Bamidele, for his creativity and investment drive, describing the project as one that perfectly aligns with Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision to make tourism a key part of Oyo State’s economy.

“We are delighted to see this kind of forward-thinking investment here in Oyo State. Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration believes that tourism can create jobs, boost local economies, and showcase Oyo as a leading destination for culture and leisure in Nigeria,” he said.

He noted that the facility represents a major private-sector contribution to the state’s tourism growth, adding that similar water-based leisure investments are rare in the South-West outside Lagos.

According to him, the ministry will work closely with the facility to promote awareness across all media platforms and attract both local and international visitors.

Oyelade assured that the government would continue to support private projects that align with its development goals, describing the facility as a shining example of how innovation and entrepreneurship can drive local growth.

In his response, the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Sanmi Bamidele, thanked the state government for its encouragement and support. He said the inspiration behind the project came from the government’s renewed focus on tourism as a tool for economic growth.

“The government cannot do it alone. What we are doing here supports Governor Makinde’s vision to increase the state’s revenue through tourism.

“People now come from all over Nigeria and even from Europe to experience what we’ve built here. Ibadan is fast transforming from the city of brown roofs into a marine destination, and we’re proud to be part of that change,” he said.

He mentioned that the facility has generated numerous direct and indirect jobs for residents of Eleyele and nearby communities, while also enhancing the area’s appearance. He also acknowledged the governor’s earlier promise to repair the access road to improve the site’s accessibility for visitors.

The commissioner was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Mr Rotimi Babalola, and directors.