In a swift reaction to a video that went viral on the social media on the poor state of Olumirin Waterfalls,Erin-Ijesha,in Oriade Local Government of Osun State, a crucial meeting of the stakeholders called at the instance of the State Governor,Senator Ademola Adeleke had its maiden meeting during which far reaching resolutions were arrived at amicably.
Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Abiodun Ojo and his Information and Public Enlightenment counterpart, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi represented the State Government team at the meeting with the representatives of the host community,Erin-Ijesha aimed at repositioning and revitalizing the Erin-Ijesja Waterfalls in particular .
In his welcome address, Hon. Abiodun Ojo, highlighted the need for collaboration and synergy between the State government and Erin-Ijesha community.
The Commissioner who commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for his passion and strong belief in culture and tourism, noted their economic, psychological and social benefits, if properly harnessed can not be over emphasized.
Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi,in his own remarks , appreciated Mr John Akinleye for drawing the attention of the public to the poor state of the waterfalls through a video that he made which went viral. He assured the people of Erin Ijesha of the readiness of the present administration to upgrade and reengineered the popular waterfalls.
Earlier,a youth leader in Erin-Ijesha community, Comrade Ajimotokin Olalere,on behalf of his community tabled catalogue of requests of the community to include provision of portable water, improved security and access road to the tourist site among other demands,which government said will be critically looked into.
Ms Gbemisola Fayoyin, Permanent Secretary, Culture and Tourism; advised the community to allow external intervention in the management of the waterfalls for prudence and financial accountability just as she sought the cooperation of the host comminity.She noted that while the state government is ready, the community should,in the same vein, complement its efforts for its multiplier effects .
A 5 point resolutions which were signed and agreed on between the Government team and the host community are, the urgent need for access road to the waterfalls, clean water and adequate security,restructuring of the management of the tourist site which,for a long time has been under the purview of the host community.
The last of the five point resolution centred on the need for Osun state government to meet other needs of the community as they arise from time to time.
Senior Special Advisers on Tourism, Hons. Adebayo Ademiluyi and Iyiola Shefiu were also present among other stakeholders at the maiden meeting.
