Igbo-Ora Community Honoured with Tourism Community Champion Award at Oyo State 2026 Tourism Excellency Award

The entire people of Igbo-Ora Land have once again recorded a significant milestone as the community was honoured with the prestigious Community Champion Award at the International Tourism Summit, Oyo State 2026.

The award was received on behalf of the community by HRM. Oba Jimoh Olajide Titiloye Asoroolu Ayinla V, The Olu of Igbo-Ora Land, Permanent Chairman, Ibarapa Central Traditional Council, and Deputy Chairman, Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs during the grand Tourism Excellency Award Ceremony held on Wednesday, 13th May, 2026, under the distinguished leadership of the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde.

The prestigious recognition was bestowed on Igbo-Ora Community in acknowledgment of its outstanding contributions to cultural tourism development, community participation, and the global promotion of the internationally celebrated World Twins Festival, Igbo-Ora, which has continued to position Oyo State prominently on the global tourism map.

Speaking after receiving the award, Kabiesi expressed profound appreciation to the Oyo State Government for recognizing the cultural heritage and tourism potential of Igbo-Ora. He described the honour as a collective achievement for the entire people of Igbo-Ora and Ibarapa Land, noting that the award would further inspire the community to continue preserving and promoting its unique cultural identity.

In a demonstration of unity and collective ownership, the royal father returned home with the award and formally presented it during the Community Strategic Meeting held on Friday, 15th May, 2026.

The award presentation was made in the presence of the Executive Chairman of Ibarapa Central Local Government, Hon. Olusola Adeleke, alongside other distinguished traditional rulers, community leaders, stakeholders, youth representatives, and notable sons and daughters of Igbo-Ora.

During the meeting, Kabiesi reaffirmed the commitment of the traditional institution and the entire community toward sustaining the growth and international relevance of the World Twins Festival, while also strengthening partnerships that will continue to attract tourism development, economic opportunities, and global visibility to the town.

The Ibarapa Central Local Government Chairman, Hon. Olusola Adeleke, commended the royal leadership and the people of Igbo-Ora for sustaining a globally recognized cultural heritage capable of driving economic growth and development in the region. He assured the community of the local government’s continued support for initiatives that promote tourism and community advancement.

The occasion further highlighted the unity, cultural pride, and progressive spirit of the people of Igbo-Ora, whose unique identity as the Twin Capital of the World continues to attract national and international attention.