Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center into a world-class tourism destination, pledging greater collaboration to improve infrastructure and accessibility.
Speaking during her official tour of the iconic resort and the unveiling of its newly constructed Presidential Suite in Ekiti State, Musawa stressed the ministry’s determination to position Ikogosi as a flagship destination for both domestic and international tourists.
“We want to deliver places like Ikogosi not just as local attractions, but as holistic tourist destinations that can compete globally,” she said. “That means infrastructure—especially road access—must be a priority.”
Although she noted that she arrived in Ekiti through Akure and enjoyed the scenic drive to Ikogosi, Musawa acknowledged that poor road conditions from major hubs remain a major deterrent for potential visitors.
She emphasized that her ministry has already initiated discussions with the Ekiti State Government and other relevant ministries and departments to tackle the issue of access.
“It’s really about partnership and collaboration. We are working to ensure that travelers can eventually fly directly into Ekiti and then drive a short, seamless distance to Ikogosi,” she added.
Musawa also outlined a fresh strategy to promote Nigerian tourism by spotlighting unique destinations rather than the country as a whole—a model similar to how international tourists recognize places like Cancun in Mexico.
“We want to sell Nigerian tourism through the lens of specific destinations. When people think of going to Ikogosi, they should want to go there like they would want to go to Bali or Santorini,” she explained. “The natural beauty here, the mystique of the warm and cold springs, and the care in developing this resort make Ikogosi a powerful starting point.”
The Minister credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for encouraging her to prioritize the development of key tourism hubs like Ikogosi, describing it as a top priority in her ministry’s mandate.
“Nobody has to go out of Nigeria to experience peace, beauty, and nature. If you want a retreat, if you want tranquility and luxury in one place, Ikogosi offers that,” Musawa said.
