The Ondo State government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and developing the Igbara-Oke Petroglyphs, one of Nigeria’s oldest cultural landmarks, as part of a broader push to revitalise tourism in the state.
During an official visit to the site, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Afolabi Adesoji, described the petroglyphs—intricate rock carvings believed to be several centuries old—as “a priceless heritage that must be preserved for future generations.”
The commissioner’s tour was organised by the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) in Akure, aligning with Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s agenda to safeguard cultural treasures while transforming them into attractions that can boost the local economy.
Recognised as a National Monument since March 19, 1962, the Igbara-Oke Petroglyphs stand as a testament to the artistry, beliefs, and identity of the region’s ancestors. Adesoji noted that beyond preservation, the government plans to develop the site into a cultural tourism hotspot capable of drawing both domestic and international visitors.
Chairman of Ifedore Local Government, Oladipupo Ajibola, welcomed the state’s renewed attention to the petroglyphs and pledged the full cooperation of the local community in protecting and promoting the historic site.
“This is not just about preserving history,” Ajibola said. “It’s about creating opportunities for tourism, economic growth, and community pride.”
