By Jimoh Babatunde

Nestled amid the lush hills of Ekiti State, Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort is steadily reinforcing its position as one of Nigeria’s leading domestic tourism destinations, attracting visitors from across the country while creating economic opportunities for surrounding communities.

 Known for its unique warm and cold springs that flow side by side without losing their distinct temperatures, the resort has become a major attraction for holidaymakers, families, corporate organisations, educational institutions and conference groups seeking leisure and relaxation within Nigeria.

 Tourism stakeholders say the growing popularity of the resort reflects an increasing shift towards domestic tourism as Nigerians explore local destinations amid rising international travel costs and foreign exchange constraints.

 A visit offers more than a chance to witness one of nature’s rarest phenomena. It is an immersion into tranquility, adventure, culture and hospitality, all set against the backdrop of Ekiti State’s rolling hills and verdant landscape.

 Arriving at the resort for a weekend with our group of ten, the first impression is one of serenity. The well-manicured grounds, towering trees and cool breeze provide an immediate escape from the bustle of urban life. Guests are welcomed into a facility that blends modern comfort with the natural beauty of its surroundings.

 After the normal check in formalities , we returned for lunch at the main restaurant with its calm atmosphere and absence of city noise making the resort particularly appealing to those seeking rest and rejuvenation.  The lunch offers an opportunity to sample a variety of Nigerian dishes, with local delicacies often featuring on the menu. As evening approaches, the resort transforms into a haven of relaxation against the background of rain.

 After the rain stopped, visitors gathered around scenic spots to watch the sunset paint the surrounding hills in golden hues. 

As evening falls, the cool weather and serene environment provide the perfect setting for relaxation, while illuminated pathways encourage leisurely strolls through the expansive grounds.

The experience continues at dawn, when the resort comes alive with activities.

 For our 10-man group, we joined other adventure enthusiasts after our breakfast for a walk on the resort’s hiking trails, which provided an opportunity to experience the natural Ekiti Hills and forest reserve surrounding the resort up close. Birdsong echoes through the trees, while the lush vegetation underscores the ecological richness of the area.

 After the exciting and grilling hiking, we descended at the meeting point of the warm and cold springs, where the custodian of the Ikogosi history, Chief Ayo Ademuluwa, was on ground to give us a brief history of Ikogosi Warm Springs.

 “I welcome you to the meeting point of the unusual. I call it the fusion of the opposites.” As he talks about the therapeutic nature of the spring, he drew attention to two different trees that have been co-habiting at the base for years.

 “I want you to look at these unusual habitations of a palm tree and a mahogany tree fused at the base and one has not been able to stiflethe other over the years. They have been co-existing symbolically for years, locked at the base.

 “That is not the only story about these two trees. If you look at the colour combination at the back of the trees, you will see the emerald green, the light brown, andthe gray colour that is exactly the combination of the stones, the pebbles in this part of the spring.”

 Beyond sightseeing, the resort offers wellness services through its spa, where guests can enjoy treatments ranging from Swedish and deep tissue massages, to hot stone therapy.

For many visitors, the resort compares favourably with international holiday destinations.

“With flight tickets and foreign exchange rates the way they are, we decided to explore Nigeria first,” said visitor Francis Ogosi. “The kids enjoyed the mountain biking and pool facilities, my wife used the spa, and I was still able to work comfortably. It felt like a complete vacation.”  Beyond its appeal as a tourist attraction, Ikogosi is making a significant contribution to the local economy. Residents of nearby communities benefit from employment opportunities in hospitality, security, maintenance, transportation and tourism-related services. 

Local traders, artisans and food vendors also derive income from the steady influx of visitors.

 One of the young lads working at the resort, Damola Easter, disclosed that “When conferences and weddings happen here, everyone benefits. The food vendors, bike tour guides, even transporters from Ado-Ekiti. The resort’s three meeting rooms and event space mean more jobs for Ikogosi youths.”

 The General Manager of Glocient Hospitality, the managing company of the resorts, Lanre Balogun, added that they haveemployed over 230 staff of which over70% are female and 60% from the communities.

He disclosed that the resort has also invested heavily in renewable energy, recreational infrastructure and facility upgrades to enhance visitor experience.

“Previously, we depended heavily on diesel-powered generators. Today, we have invested close to $200,000 in renewable energy solutions that provide power for up to 12 hours daily. The investment is already generating significant savings and supporting our sustainability goals,” he said.

He added: “The savings we are making with the benchmark of our 500 kVA is over half a billion in a year and that benchmark was done with our 500 kVA generator running for 10 hours, savings alone. “When we did the financial analysis over the years, over one year, 365 days, we’ll be making the savings of over half a billion Naira.”

Balogun added that the resort currently has 92 rooms spread across three accommodation camps, with major upgrades completed in Camps B and C, while renovations continue in Camp A.

He noted that additional facilities include a boardwalk at the spring site, forest trails, sports courts and a modern conference centre designed to attract corporate events, retreats and destination gatherings.

While commending the Ekiti State Government for creating an enabling environment for tourism businesses, Balogun said the resort benefits from its accessibility through nearby airports in Akure and Ado-Ekiti.

“We want Nigerians to see Ikogosi as a national asset. The country is blessed with remarkable tourism resources, and Ikogosi stands as proof that world-class experiences can be found at home,” he said.

 He rounded off saying: “We’re not just selling rooms. We’re selling the Ikogosi experience where Nigeria’s only warm and cold springs meet. With our new 5,651 sq ft conference centre and upgraded wellness facilities, we want families, corporates, and diaspora Nigerians to see Ekiti as a first-choice destination.”

 And echoing Balogun’s submission, a member of the visiting team, Iro Andy, said “Domestic tourism is Nigeria’s low-hanging fruit. Properties like Ikogosi show you can combine natural heritage with modern comforts ,fitness center, free Wi-Fi, business facilities , and compete with regional destinations.”

 As the weekend experience comes to an end, one thing becomes clear: Ikogosi is much more than a tourist attraction. It is a destination where nature, relaxation and culture intersect to create memorable experiences.

 For travellers looking to discover the beauty that exists within Nigeria’s borders, Ikogosi offers compelling evidence that some of the country’s most remarkable experiences are found not abroad, but at home. Whether for a weekend getaway, family holiday or corporate retreat, the warm springs continue to live up to their reputation as one of Nigeria’s most captivating natural wonders.