…Urges Stakeholders To Synergise, Build Industry That Foster Devt., Uplift Vulnerable Nigerians
As the global community unites to mark World Tourism Day 2024, the Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to using tourism as a force for promoting peace, fostering understanding, and driving economic development.
The theme of this year’s World Tourism Day 2024, is “Tourism and Peace.”
A statement issued by the Director of Press, Ministry of Tourism, Chindaya Ahmadu informed that the Minister spoke at the World Tourism Day at the FCT Arts Pavilion on September 27, 2024.
The statement further informed that the Minister highlighted the vital role of tourism in advancing national and global peace efforts, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for national prosperity.
The Minister reflected on the profound impact of tourism beyond its traditional economic contributions, noting that tourism brings people and cultures together, help to dissolve prejudices and build mutual respect.
She emphasised that in today’s world, where divisions are more pronounced, tourism serves as a bridge to foster harmony.
“Tourism is more than an industry; it is a pathway to peace and reconciliation,” the Minister remarked.
She referenced projections from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) showing that Nigeria’s tourism sector is set to create 2.6 million new jobs in the coming decade, contributing ₦12.3 trillion to the economy by 2032.
While these figures illustrate immense economic potential, the Minister stressed that the true power of tourism lies in its ability to foster unity, break down barriers, and support inclusive growth.
According to her, “Every interaction between a visitor and a host is an opportunity to build bridges of understanding,. Our goal is not only to promote Nigeria’s beauty and culture but to leverage these experiences to create a peaceful and prosperous .
The Minister outlined a series of strategic actions that unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector.
The Ministry, she said is focused on driving sustainable development through a robust National Tourism Policy in collaboration with the Nigeria Economic Summit Group and the Tourism Development Master Plan, which are both being revitalised under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
She explained that a key component of this plan is the reactivation of the Presidential Council on Tourism, aimed at providing the leadership and framework necessary to steer the industry forward.
Additionally, the Minister discussed ongoing efforts to embrace digital transformation within the tourism industry, adding that this involves leveraging technology to improve Nigeria’s tourism infrastructure, including the creation of a comprehensive tourism database, website, mobile app, and virtual tours.
These initiatives, Ade-John further explained is supported by private sector partnerships with companies like Cavista Holdings, are designed to make Nigerian tourism more accessible and appealing to global audiences while empowering the country’s tech-savvy youth.
She also emphasised the importance of reinvigorating Nigeria’s tourist attractions, such as the Obudu Mountain Resort and Yankari Game Reserve, through collaboration with state governments.
These partnerships, she said is focused on infrastructure development and investment, aim at enhancing visitors’ experiences while stimulating local economies.
The Minister’s vision for Nigeria’s tourism extends beyond economic growth, as she stressed the need for community-based tourism programmes that uplift local communities, especially women and youth.
The Minister noted that through initiatives such as the Eco -Genesis Incubator Series, the Ministry is committed to skills development and entrepreneurship, providing opportunities for Nigerians to fully participate in the benefits of tourism.
These efforts, she stated are directly tied to reducing poverty and fostering peace within communities, addressing some of the root causes of conflict.
The Minister also talked about the integration of tourism into Nigeria’s education system, an initiative, she informed is designed to foster a deep appreciation for cultural heritage from an early age, adding that in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the inclusion of tourism and history subjects into the national curriculum ensures that future generations understand the significance of Nigeria’s rich cultural landscape, helping to promote both tourism and national unity.
The Minister stressed that sustainable tourism, which respects local communities and the environment, is central to the Ministry’s Agenda.
She posited that by promoting eco-friendly travel, Nigeria can protect its natural treasures while fostering a sense of pride and ownership among its citizens, leading to more peaceful and harmonious communities.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s tourism potential, the Minister reaffirmed the country’s commitment to using tourism as a force for good, adding that by fostering international partnerships, preserving cultural diversity, and creating opportunities for marginalised communities, Nigeria’s tourism sector is poised to make significant contributions to both national development and global peace-building efforts.
“Our tourism industry is growing at an incredible rate.
“With President Tinubu’s visionary leadership and our collective efforts, we have an unprecedented opportunity to leverage this growth not just for economic gain, but for peace and prosperity. Let us move forward with the understanding that every journey, every interaction, can be a step toward a more peaceful and united world,” she said.
Ade-John called on stakeholders, governments and private enterprises to local communities to work together in building a tourism industry that promotes peace, fosters development, and uplifts the most vulnerab
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