By Olododo Imoaseda, Oguntoyinbo Temiloluwa, Bezaleel Flourish, Agboola Gideon, Bode Temitope and Opebiyi Olamilekan
Olumo Rock, the iconic tourist destination in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, is experiencing an unprecedented surge in revenue put at over over 200% turnover in ticket sales, following a recent renovation by the Prince Dapo Abiodun led administration in the State
However, the impressive financial turnaround comes alongside with new, stricter tourist policies that are already generating discussion among people.
A top official who would not like his name to be mentioned told Edu-biznews made this known to Edu-biznews during an interview on Tuesday,
The historic tourism according to him,
has seen a dramatic increase in patronage since the extensive renovation done between April 14 and July 31, this year
The 23-day free trial period from August 1st to 23rd appears to have successfully reignited public interest, translating into significant commercial success for the site.
Edu-biznews observed firsthand the implementation of these new regulations. which include strict prohibition of visitors from bringing outside food items or edibles into the premises, with a hefty penalty fee of #10,000 for any infraction.
Management expects visitors to purchase all refreshments from vendors located within the complex inline with the new regulations
Entry fees have also been adjusted, for instance , a tourist who is interested in climbing from the base to the summit of Olumo Rock now pays #3,000. For those wishing to explore only the middle section of the rock, the fee is higher than #1,500 but less than #3,000, while a basic entry for ground-level access remains #1,500.
The process of ticketing has also been digitalized, as visitors no longer pay by cash, except through their Automated Debit Cards or electronic transfer into the designated official account of the tourism site
Adding to the site's renewed grandeur is a newly erected golden statue commemorating Adagba, the legendary hunter who discovered the rock. Adagba famously utilized Olumo Rock as a formidable fortress, providing sanctuary for the Egba people during inter-tribal wars. This new monument serves as a powerful tribute to the Egba's rich history and heritage.
While the financial boost is a clear win for the state's tourism sector and aligns with the Prince Abiodun administration's objective to turn tourism to a gold mine , the new strictures, particularly the ban on outside food, signal a shift in visitor experience.
The challenge for Olumo Rock management will be to maintain this impressive revenue growth while balancing visitor satisfaction with operational control.
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