pannigeriannews 
An American citizen, Clarissa Zoe Arokodare, has given an inspiring and glowing testimonial about Nigeria after completing a deeply transformational visit that overturned the fear-based narratives she had been fed before her arrival.
Speaking with Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Clarissa revealed that she faced heavy discouragement from friends, family members and associates in the United States when she announced her intention to travel to Nigeria for her traditional wedding in Ijero-Ekiti.
She said, “They scared me not to come to Nigeria. I received frightening stories, exaggerated warnings, and negative portrayals of the country from Western media sources and even some Nigerians based abroad. My parents were worried; my friends were alarmed, and I was bombarded with horror narratives. But I refused to let fear take charge of my destiny.”
She revealed that upon arrival, her entire perception changed.
She described Nigeria as a nation filled with warmth, intelligence, creativity, and breathtaking tourism potential, stating that the Nigeria she encountered was far more beautiful and humane than the misrepresentations circulated globally.
Clarissa who was accompanied by her husband to the Bureau’s Office spoke passionately about her experience in Ekiti State.
She stated that although she had previously visited Ikogosi Warm Springs, Arinta Waterfalls and the old Fajuyi Park, she never imagined that the state held many more magnificent and untouched tourism assets until she visited the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development.
That visit, she said, opened her eyes to the depth of Ekiti’s cultural and natural wealth, prompting her to describe Ekiti as “a paragon of tourism.” She further revealed that exploring the Bureau’s website, visitekiti.ek.gov.ng, exposed her to even more opportunities, leading her to book a guided tour of 14 tourism sites across the State.
She commended the development strides of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) and praised the leadership of the Bureau under Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, describing him as a visionary tourism strategist with a deep understanding of global and domestic tourism paradigms.
Clarissa also disclosed that her profound love for Nigeria moved her to compose a special patriotic song dedicated to the country.
She explained that the inspiration came from her emotional experience with the people, culture, and colours of Nigeria. “Nigeria touched me deeply — the people, the culture, the rhythm, the energy. My love for this country compelled me to express it in music,” she said.
She further revealed that the song has already attracted the attention of a vibrant Federal Government agency, which has shown strong interest in adopting and promoting the track as part of Nigeria’s orientational appreciation of Nigeria ‘s strength, cultural and tourism identity.
She described Nigerians as some of the most warm-hearted and brilliant people she has ever met and urged foreigners to disregard the fear-driven stereotypes about the country.
She, however, encouraged Nigeria to ensure friendlier airport interactions for tourists and to make its tourism policies and regulations globally available to avoid confusion for international visitors.
Clarissa concluded with a message to the world: “Nigeria is safe. Nigeria is beautiful. Nigeria is rising beyond imagination. Every foreigner should come and experience this country with an open mind.”
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