By Chimezie Godfrey
In recognition to this year’s World Tourism day, The Honorable Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John has said that the Federal Government is set to create, promote Nigeria’s tourism products in the diaspora and at home.
Speaking at the Abuja 2023 World Tourism day with the theme; ‘Tourism and Green Investment, the Minister stated that the tourism “products are vast, plentiful and core to revenue generation for the country”.
She added that there is opportunity to reflect on ways to enhance the contribution of tourism in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015.
According to the Minister, taking tourism to the community level, showcasing the hidden gems of the villages in all regions of our picturesque and diverse country, is the essence of creating sustainable tourism in Nigeria.
Lola Ade- John identified the key points for growth and development of tourism in Nigeria as; community Empowerment, collaboration and partnerships, sustainable Tourism Development, Investment in Renewable Energy and Digital transformation. According to her, all these has a transformative power and holds immense potential for our nation.
The Minister reiterated that tourism products require adequate publicity development, maintenance and promotion.
She remarked that there are numerous challenges that plagued the industry but the government will gradually, speedily and successfully overcome these challenges with guidance, support and collaboration of all stakeholders.
Speaking earlier at the event, the United Nation’s world tourism Secretary – General, Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, said that tourism is a pillar of our economies. It plays a central role in our societies and in our individual lives. According to the UN Secretary, tourism offers solutions to some of our biggest challenges including the climate emergency and the urgent need to shift to more sustainable economies.
Mr. Zurab further said that the power of tourism is enormous. He remarked that tourism will be made easier for investors of all kinds to support tourism projects with potential to make a difference.
