The Ondo State Government has expressed readiness to partner with the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) to build a monument in memory of the late Prophet T.B. Joshua, four years after his passing.
Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa made this known while receiving members of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) at the Government House in Akure. The association had earlier held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in the state capital and embarked on a familiarisation tour of key tourist attractions.
Responding to inquiries about the development of man-made tourist attractions to complement the state's natural wonders, the governor affirmed that Ondo is open to collaborating with investors and institutions to create monuments that will promote tourism and preserve the legacies of prominent figures from the state.
“Talking about religious tourism to be added to all these natural wonders that nature has given to us, you mentioned Prophet T.B. Joshua in Arigidi Akoko—he is not the only one. We also have the founder of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church and another pioneer of the Zion Church in my own local government,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He added that developing such monuments must be in partnership with the churches and religious bodies associated with these spiritual leaders.
“Perhaps when the new Commissioner for Culture and Tourism assumes office next week, this will be one of the assignments I will give to them,” he added.
Reflecting on T.B. Joshua’s global influence, Aiyedatiwa described the late prophet as a renowned spiritual leader whose legacy extended far beyond Nigeria.
“Prophet T.B. Joshua is a global figure. I was present at his burial, representing the then governor. His impact was felt in many countries, and his followers still span the globe. With SCOAN’s cooperation, we can encourage more pilgrims and religious tourists to visit Arigidi-Akoko, his hometown.”
The governor emphasized that such initiatives would not only honor spiritual icons but also contribute significantly to boosting religious tourism and local economic development in Ondo State.
