The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on Nigerian youths to tap into the vast opportunities in tourism, stressing that the sector alone could generate between five and 10 million jobs if properly harnessed.
National Youth Leader of the party, Balarabe Rufai, made the call on Thursday in Kagoro, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State, during the maiden mountain climbing contest organised as part of Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary celebrations in partnership with Gworok Play House, a local development group.
“Our youths are the greatest assets we have as a nation, and so we are doing this to expose them to the potentialities in tourism,” Rufai said while presenting prizes to winners, adding that the ADC would continue to support initiatives that promote peace and economic empowerment.
Founders of Gworok Play House, James Iya and Gima Iya, said the initiative was designed to inform, entertain, and raise awareness on development issues, noting that Kagoro is rich in both human and natural resources. They reiterated their commitment to using tourism as a tool for peace and sustainable growth.
The contest featured athletes racing up and down the iconic Kagoro Hills, with winners in three categories males (1–34 years), males (35 years and above), and females receiving cash prizes of ₦20,000, ₦15,000, and ₦10,000 respectively. Other participants received consolation prizes of ₦2,000.
One of the winners, Sunday James, captain of the Kagoro Athletes Association, applauded the organisers and appealed for more financial support to help local athletes achieve their full potential.
