If you have followed the story of Folorunsho Folarin Coker, the D.G Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation NTDC, you will decode that he is a man blessed beyond measures by his creator. His rise to the top is not by sheer luck but commitment, hard work laced with grace. All the public office he had previously occupied, he left an indelible mark and also set standards with records yet unbroken. While as a commission of culture and Tourism in Lagos state, he created the One Lagos Fiesta which was regarded as one of the most peaceful and unifying entertainment events in Lagos state.
Many who wonder why he had recorded that much success they are quick to forget that he knows tourism and entertainment business like the back of his hand. This and many more attracted President Buhari who appointed him in 2017 and reappointed him in 2021 to infuse his Midas touch to boost tourism in Nigeria. Under his watch, the tourism sector has racked in more in terms of IGR. With brilliant ideas, he has sold Nigeria to the rest of the world as one of the best tourism destinations in Africa.
The Baba Eto of Ilara-Epe kingdom was a guest at the Olojo Festival last week as the Arole Oodua; Ooni Of Ife Ooni Adeyeye Babatunde Ogunwusi having seen his immense contribution to tourism in Nigeria and his giant strides as a successful businessman and technocrat bestow on him a title as the Baba Eto of Oodua designate. Putting him on the list of the very few people the Ooni had given traditional title since his ascension to the throne over 5 years ago. As Musician Aiyefele made the announcement on stage, Folly Coker flanked by the Alara of Ilara and The Olugbon of Ileogbon mounted the stage followed by the Ooni of Ife to confirm the authenticity of the title conferment. His late father who was a well-respected elder in Lagos during his life holds the title as the Baba Eto of Lagos but with the new announcement, Folly is taking it a step further as his own title covers the Oodua race. Sources disclose that the title conferment date is yet to be announced but the Lacasa Lagos boss is currently planning so his soiree would be grand.
