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 ahead of the 2025 Oluyole Golf Tournament, slated for August 22 to 24, Dr. Olatubosun, yesterday, said that 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 that 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.
 
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 fourth edition of the 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.