In a continued effort to promote sustainable tourism and strengthen the integration of culture, heritage, and environmental conservation, the Delta State Tourism Board conducted a familiarisation tour of key cultural and eco-tourism sites in Warri South Local Government Area.

Held on October 14, 2025, the visit was led by Rt. Hon. Ochor Ochor, Chairman of the Delta State Tourism Board, and included board members and senior officials committed to advancing Delta State’s tourism development agenda. The tour covered three major sites in Ijala Ikenren, a community renowned for its cultural significance and rich ecological landscape, including the Warri Kingdom Royal Cemetery, Falcorp Mangrove Park – Nature and Eco- Leisure Park, and the Institute of Mangrove Ecology and Environmental Technology (INSTMEETECH).

These locations offered a unique blend of cultural heritage, environmental education, and eco- tourism innovation, demonstrating the potential for integrated tourism experiences in Delta State.

Showcasing the Depth of Warri’s Heritage

During the tour of the Warri Kingdom Royal Cemetery, the Board received a guided tour led by Chief Presiding Officer of the Coastal and Marine Areas Development Initiative (CMADI), Mr. Henry A. Erikowa, who highlighted the historical importance of the site as the final resting place of past Olus of Warri, a revered lineage central to the identity of the Itsekiri people.

Attention was drawn to the adjoining Falcorp Mangrove Park and the INSTMEETECH research facility—both of which stand as living examples of how ecological assets can be preserved while also supporting tourism and education.

Speaking during the tour, Rt. Hon. Ochor Ochor emphasized that the familiarisation visit reflects the Tourism Board’s dedication to developing tourism products that are authentic, research-backed, and environmentally sustainable. He reiterated that Warri’s cultural and ecological assets hold immense potential for tourism growth if they are properly promoted and protected.

The Board commended community stakeholders, conservation partners, and local youth groups for their contributions to the maintenance of these historic and ecological sites. Their efforts, the Board noted, are crucial to ensuring that tourism development remains inclusive and community-driven.

A Vision for Tourism Rooted in Heritage, Research, and Conservation

The Delta State Tourism Board reaffirmed its commitment to positioning the state as a leading destination for sustainable cultural and eco-tourism in Nigeria. By showcasing interlinked sites such as the Royal Cemetery, Falcorp Mangrove Park, and INSTMEETECH, the Board aims to promote tourism experiences that celebrate identity, protect biodiversity, and support local livelihoods.

Through this visit, the Board continues to chart a pathway that preserves heritage and nature, empowers communities, and ensures tourism contributes meaningfully to the economic and environmental well-being of Delta State.