The Royal Entertainment Cruise (REC), the Oyo State award-winning boat cruising and relaxation center nestled along the scenic waterfront of Eleyele Obokun at the base of Ibadan’s historic Origin Hill, played host to a high-level courtesy visit by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII)
The delegation, led by the President-General of CCII, Chief (Barr.) Niyi Ajewole, was warmly received by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of REC, Prince (Dr.) Sanmi Bamidele. The visit marked a significant moment in Ibadan’s cultural and tourism development narrative, reinforcing REC’s symbolic connection to the city’s roots and heritage.
The location of REC at the foot of the Origin Hill; a sacred site recognized as the ancestral starting point of Ibadan has made the cruise center especially meaningful to CCII, the umbrella body for all Ibadan indigenes at home and in the diaspora. The organization has consistently supported projects that promote Ibadan’s history, culture, and progress.
Speaking during the visit, Chief Ajewole praised REC’s emergence as a leading tourist destination, describing it as “a model of what Ibadan stands for rich culture, natural beauty, and innovation.”
“The establishment of the Royal Entertainment Cruise right at the symbolic root of Ibadan’s origin is not only strategic but deeply inspiring. It connects our past with our future. CCII identifies with this vision and is proud to stand by it,” said Chief Ajewole.
Prince (Dr.) Sanmi Bamidele, in his welcome remarks, thanked the CCII leadership for their visit and continued support. He emphasized that REC is more than a relaxation center; it is a cultural project, a youth empowerment platform, and a catalyst for tourism and economic growth in Oyo State.
“This is not just about cruising or relaxation. It’s about telling the story of Ibadan in a modern, engaging way. REC exists to preserve history, promote unity, and provide world-class leisure that celebrates our heritage,” Dr. Bamidele noted.
“We host a celebration where a particular day will be dedicated for the place with the attendance of prominent and high profile Ibadan Indigenes.
Thanks for making us proud and we are always proud to associate with you”, Mogaji Asiwaju Nurudeen Akinade stated.
The CCII delegation which includes the President- General, Chief Barr Ajeniyi Ajewole, Mr Iyanda Suleiman; 2nd Assistant Secretary General, Alhaja Folashade Olayiwola; Social Secretary, Mrs Bolaji Olowookere; Chief Whip, Mogaji Asiwaju Nurudeen Akinade; Former Ag. Secretary General among others were given a guided tour of the facilities, including the floating cruise platform, VIP lounges, open-air waterfront stages, print ball gaming and artistic installations reflecting Yoruba culture and Ibadan’s unique legacy.
The visit also served as an avenue for deeper collaboration between REC and CCII, with discussions around upcoming festivals, youth engagement initiatives, and international tourism promotion.
Royal Entertainment Cruise continues to draw attention as one of the fastest-growing leisure destinations in South-West Nigeria. Its strategic location at the historic Eleyele Waterfront and its commitment to excellence recently earned it a state tourism award and growing acclaim across the country.
As Ibadan pushes forward in redefining itself as a center of cultural pride and urban innovation, projects like REC grounded in heritage and driven by vision are leading the way.
