Tackle insecurity for tourism to thrive, Expert urges govt.

Jos-based tourism expert, Mr Damar Victor, has urged governments all levels to tackle insecurity in order to boost tourism in the country.

Victor, Assistant General Manager, Wildlife, Plateau Tourism Corporation, made the call in a interview with newsmen in Jos on Friday.

He said that the insecurity in some parts of the country had negatively affected the tourism sector.

“The nation has numerous tourism potentials which can be harnessed to its economic advantage but this may be difficult because of insecurity.

“The insecurity in some states that have tourism potentials has denied them of the benefits in the sector,” he said.

According to him, tourism cannot thrive in a society plagued by insecurity, violence and crime.

The tourism expert said that although insecurity was a global problem, governments across the world were taking steps to tackle it.

“We cannot afford to be left behind; we must tackle insecurity to enliven sectors that have almost become comatose.

“Nigeria’s tourism sector can compete favourably with many other nations that are now famous in tourism.

“We need peace and a safe environment to harness the gains in the industry, as no tourist wants to be hurt,” he said.

Victor identified encroachment on tourism reserves as a major challenge to the sector in Plateau.

“Encroachment on reserves, illegal mining and grazing activities are impacting negatively on tourism in the state,” he said.