By Otori Ozigi
It goes without saying that tourism development in Kogi State, Nigeria, holds a significant potential due to its diverse natural and cultural attractions.
Situated in the central region of Nigeria, Kogi State boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes, historical sites, and cultural heritage that could be leveraged to attract domestic and international tourists.
One of the prominent attractions in Kogi State is the confluence of Rivers Niger and Benue, which occurs at Lokoja, the state capital.
This natural phenomenon presents a unique opportunity for tourism development, offering scenic views, water-based activities such as boat cruises, and opportunities for eco-tourism initiatives along the riverbanks.
In addition to its natural wonders, Kogi State is endowed with historical sites that reflect its rich cultural heritage. The state is home to relics of ancient civilizations, including the centuries-old Igala Kingdom, with its fascinating artifacts, palaces, and festivals. Sites such as the Ejule Ojebe Festival Ground, the Attah of Igala Palace in Idah, and the Mount Patti Hill offer glimpses into the region’s storied past and provide avenues for cultural tourism experiences.
Moreover, Kogi State boasts diverse ecological landscapes, including dense forests, rolling hills, and wildlife reserves, such as the Mount Patti Forest Reserve and the Okpara Game Reserve.
These areas present opportunities for adventure tourism, wildlife safaris, and nature-based activities, catering to the interests of nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
After a holistic and extensive tour of all the potential tourist sites,a team of tourism experts led by Hajia Bilqis Abdul, the Chief Executive Officer of Bboog travel and tours,Abuja, came up with the under listed tourism sites, that could be harnessed to generate additional revenue for the state in the years ahead.
They are not listed in any particular order, please.
1. OBANGOGO MOUNTAIN RESORT, EGUNGBE, KABBA, KOGI STATE
2. OMI DAM, YAGBA WEST LGA, KOGI STATE
3. NIKE ART GALLERY OGIDI, IJUMU, KOGI STATE
4. UKPOGO WATERFALL, OKENE, KOGI STATE
5. EKUKU DAM OKENE, KOGI STATE
6. OGENGENOSI MOUNTAIN, MAGONGO LGA, KOGI STATE
7. OKENE WATER WORKS OKENE LGA, KOGI STATE
8. POTTERY MAKING OKEHI LGA KOGI STATE
9. OSARA DAM, Adavi LGA, KOGI STATE
10. GANAJA PORT, LOKOJA, KOGI STATE
11. KPATA ROCKS, BASSA NGE LGA, KOGI STATE
12. OLD MISSIONARY HOUSE, BASSA NGE KOGI STATE
13. OLD MISSIONARY CLINIC, BASSA NGE KOGI STATE
14. ABU-JA RIVER OLOFU AYINGBA, DEKINA LGA, KOGI STATE
15. THE EJEH OF ANKPA PALACE, DEKINA LGA KOGI STATE
16. INIKPI STATUE, EGA, IDAH KOGI STATE
17. PRINCESS OMODOKO STATUE & INACHOLO RIVER IDAH LGA, KOGI STATE
18. EGANE EARTH BRIDGE, OFU LGA, KOGI STATE
19. MOUNT PATTI LOKOJA KOGI STATE
20. NATIONAL MUSEUM LOKOJA KOGI STATE
21. OLDEST CLUB IN WEST AFRICA, CLUB 1901, LOKOJA, KOGI STATE
22. THE FIRST PRISON IN NORTHERN NIGERIA, LOKOJA, KOGI STATE
23. KOGI HOTEL(UNCOMPLETED) & NATIONAL ART GALLERY LOKOJA, KOGI STATE
24. THE SPOT OF THE ROYAL NIGER COMPANY WERE THE FLAG WAS LOWERED (JANUARY 1ST 1900)
25. EUROPEAN CEMETERY, LOKOJA, KOGI STATE
26. THE CONFLUENCE BEACH HOTEL, LOKOJA, KOGI STATE
Against this background, therefore,it is crystal clear that kogi state is poised to maximize the full potentials of tourism sector as a tool for economic prosperity and additional revenue generation.
The future of tourism in Kogi state holds a key to unlock more opportunities to diversify the economy of the state at a time like this.
Tourism beckons.
By Otori Ozigi,a veteran Journalist and PR Consultant, writes from Okene,Kogi State.
08073295000– SMS only.
