Minister tasks Governors to prioritize tourism development for job creation, income generation
By Matthew Denis
The Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John has called on the Governors to look inward by harnessing the potentials of tourism development in their respective states for gainful job opportunities, income generation and entrepreneurship skills.
The Minister made the disclosure during the unveiling of Executive Tourism Mice at Tourism Parliament held in Abuja yesterday.
The Minister who was represented by the Special Adviser, Kelvin Ikegwuonu said that Nigeria is blessed with an abundance of natural and cultural resources from pristine beaches and lush rainforest to rich historical sites and vibrant cultural heritage.
She revealed that these assets, if harnessed effectively, can be transformed into a gold mine of opportunities, while emphasized the vast potential of tourism as a key driver of job creation and economic diversification in Nigeria.
The emphasized that strategically developed tourism could generate employment across various sectors, including hospitality, transportation, and arts and crafts, with ripple effects that could significantly impact the economy.
“Tourism can be a lifeline for our teenage youth population, offering gainful employment and entrepreneurship avenues. Moreover, tourism is a key to economic diversification. By reducing over-excellence on oil and build a more resilient, sustainable economy.
The Minister stated that by investing in infrastructure, provide enabling environment for businesses and promoting the country’s unique selling points, saying this can collectively position the country as a world-class tourism destination.
Speaking on the theme of the event: “Tourism as a Catalyst for Job Creation and Economic Diversification,” the Gambia High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mohamadou Musa Njie said this holds profound significance for all, which is not merely a discussion; but a call to action.
He therefore invited everyone to acknowledge the transformative power of tourism and its potential to shape the economic destiny of the nations.
The High Commissioner stated that with Nigeria’s vast and diverse cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, vibrant communities, the country has great potential to utilize tourism for job creation, wealth generation, and economic growth.
He said, “We understand that the Nigerian tourism sector has its own challenges, similar to any other industry, but developing a strategic tourism policy with specific, sustainable programs at all levels is crucial.
Prioritizing access to these assets and investing in tourism infrastructure are essential steps. With these components in place, tourism has the potential to become one of Nigeria’s most valuable assets, considering the nation’s abundant natural and cultural resources.
“The key lies in leveraging these natural assets to attract both local and international visitors while also supporting communities where these assets are situated. This approach can create jobs and economic opportunities at all levels.
“Involving local communities and private sector players across the tourism value chain, from hospitality to cultural exhibitions, will ensure that the benefits of this sector are felt far and wide.
“This inclusivity not only enhances the visitor experience but also strengthens the very fabric of society, foster sense of ownership and pride among the people”, the Gambia High Commissioner added.
The Director-General of National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, Nura Sani Kangiwa stated that by investing in tourism, the Govt can create new job opportunities for the communities, supporting local artisans, hospitality workers, tour guides etc.
Kangiwa implored the Governors and by extention local government chairmen while calling them for action, implored them to work together in harnessing the power of tourism to promote sustainable practices, protect the natural resources and celebrate the country’s cultural identity.
The convener, Amb. Ayo Omotoso said his Organization has partnered with the Nigerian Governors Forum to give this initiative the edge to reach out to Governors in the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory.
Omotoso lauded President Ahmed Tinubu for creating Tourism Ministry while acknowledging that there are some Governors that are tourism-friendly in Nigeria.
He said ” we want to incorporate all the 36 states plus FCT into this project, they are all. “Because tourism is life, and it’s like policies.
“We’ve to go live, because of what they do, the policies. And so we’ve to just embrace it, and moving forward by creating employment for the teaming Nigerian youths. Because tourism is the highest employer of labor. So, with this, we are using this opportunity, the media, to communicate effectively to the Nigerian Governors”, he said.
Other guest speaker at the event was the ex-Director General of the Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation now the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority, Madam Sally Mbanefo and other notable tourism dignitaries.
