- says Sector Can Boost Nation’s Economy
By John Dike, Osogbo
Kunle Rasheed Adegoke (SAN), a leading governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and popularly known as K-RAD, has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform Osun’s tourism landscape through enhanced infrastructure and accessibility.
He described Tourism as a vital sector capable of significantly boosting a nation’s economy.
He urgent states across Nigeria to harness the tourism potential within their borders—particularly in Osun State, where rich cultural and natural heritage sites abound.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement in Ila Orangun, Adegoke laid out his strategy to improve mobility for both tourists and residents by introducing a modern, reliable, and tech-enabled taxi service across major towns in the state. According to him, the initiative will act as a catalyst for economic revival—particularly in the tourism and transport sectors.
“Osun State is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and natural attractions,” Adegoke said, citing landmarks such as the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, Erin Ijesha and Ayankunugba Waterfalls, and the Oranmiyan Grove in Ile-Ife.
“By reintroducing efficient taxi services, we can make these destinations more accessible, boost local businesses, and create jobs.”
He stressed the importance of infrastructure in making tourism enjoyable and sustainable.
“Tourists won’t enjoy being crammed into uncomfortable Korope buses from Osogbo to Owalla Dam just to experience boat rides or bird watching,” he said.
“What they deserve is a comfortable ride in a well-maintained taxi, manned by cultured and well-trained drivers who can market our traditions and culture.”
The proposed taxi system is set to debut in Osogbo, Ile-Ife, and Ilesa, with plans to expand statewide. Adegoke explained that the system would leverage technology—including mobile booking apps and digital payment systems—to ensure convenience, transparency, and safety for passengers.
Beyond enhancing tourism, the plan aims to empower young people across the state.
“This is not just a transportation project—it’s a youth empowerment initiative,” he noted.
“We will create employment opportunities not only for drivers but also for dispatchers, app developers, mechanics, and customer service agents.”
Adegoke emphasized that the taxi project is just one component of his broader “Assured Future” governance blueprint, which also focuses on agricultural development, infrastructure renewal, and job creation.
He also unveiled “Project Origin”, a cultural tourism initiative designed to position Ile-Ife as the cradle of Yoruba civilization and a premier global destination for heritage tourism.
“Tourism is a low-hanging fruit for Osun’s economic diversification,” he said.
“By improving access to our rich cultural landmarks, we can attract more visitors, stimulate local commerce, and reduce overdependence on federal allocations.”
Adegoke’s tourism-driven strategy has received praise from several APC stakeholders and political figures across the state
