By Chidiebere UGWU
Tourism stakeholders have emphasized the immense value of tourism as catalyst for job creation and economic diversification, urging the 36 state governors of the federation to explore the sector’s potential to provide meaningful means of livelihood for Nigerians.
This was the submission of various speakers at the Tourism Parliament and unveiling of executive tourism mice which held on August 15, 2024, at the Continental Hotel, Abuja, with the theme: “Tourism as a Catalyst for Job Creation and Economic Diversification”.
Alhaji Nura Sani Kangiwa, the Director General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), in his address urged Nigerian governors to act on tourism’s potential to stimulate job growth and economic stability.
Kangiwa highlighted the importance of sustainable tourism practices and local government involvement in harnessing tourism resources to enrich communities and foster economic resilience in Nigeria.
Earlier, Ambassador Ayo Omotosho, the convener, explained that the event tagged the inaugural Destination Nigeria Government Tourism Conference, is aimed at promoting tourism through brainstorming and the media.
Timesreporters Online reports that the event marks a significant step in discussing tourism development challenges in Nigeria, following similar initiatives in Lagos.
Omotosho expressed gratitude to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for establishing the Ministry of Tourism, emphasizing the sector’s potential for job creation and economic growth.
He said conference seeks to engage state governors and stakeholders to enhance domestic tourism and foster collaboration across all states, highlighting tourism’s vital role in Nigeria’s development.
Also, H.E. Mohamadou Musa Njie, the Gambia’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, in his goodwill message noted that at the theme “Tourism as a Catalyst for Job Creation and Economic Diversification is apt considering the massive job creation potential existent in the sector.
He highlighted Nigeria’s vast cultural heritage and natural resources as key assets for tourism development, which can drive job creation and economic growth.
Njie called for strategic tourism policies and infrastructure investments to enhance local and international tourism.
He also acknowledged the media’s role in promoting Nigeria as a tourist destination and commended the event organizers for their efforts in advancing tourism discussions.
