WTD 2024: FG reaffirms commitment to promoting peace, driving economic development through tourism
[By VICTOR NZE]
Federal Government, through the Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John has reaffirmed Federal Government’s commitment to using the sector to promote peace and forster understanding, in addition to driving economic development in the country.
Speaking at the grand finale of the 2024 World Tourism Day (WTD) celebrations in Abuja, which held inside the Exhibition Pavillion, opposite Radio House, Garki, the minister stated that the sector has a major role to play in the task of advancing national and global peace efforts, which, she noted, aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for national prosperity.
The WTD, as recognised by the United Nations (UN), is commemorated annually on September 27 across the world by countries, with the theme for this year’s edition being; ‘Tourism and Peace.’.
According to the minister, beyond its traditional economic contributions, ‘tourism brings people and cultures together, helping to dissolve prejudices and build mutual respect,’ just as she emphasizes that, in today’s world, where divisions are more pronounced, the industry can serve as a bridge to foster harmony.
“Tourism is more than an industry; it is a pathway to peace and reconciliation,” the remarked.
Further referencing projections from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) which showed that Nigeria’s tourism sector is set to create 2.6 million new jobs in the coming decade, contributing N12.3 trillion to the economy by 2032, Ade-John noted that while these figures illustrate immense economic potential, ‘the true power of tourism lies in its ability to foster unity, break down barriers, and support inclusive growth.’
“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 nation,” the minister stated.
She outlined a series of strategic actions so far undertaken by her office geared towards unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector.
“The Ministry is focused on driving sustainable development through a robust National Tourism Policy in collaboration with the Nigeria Economic Summit Group and the Tourism Development MasterPlan, which are both being revitalized under the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 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.
“Efforts are presently ongoing to embrace digital transformation within the tourism industry which 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, 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.
“The ministry is placing emphasis on reinvigorating Nigeria’s tourist attractions, such as the Obudu Mountain Resort and Yankari Game Reserve, through collaboration with state governments. These partnerships, focused on infrastructure development and investment, aim to enhance visitors’ experiences while stimulating local economies.
“Through initiatives such as the EcoGenesis 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 are directly tied to reducing poverty and fostering peace within communities, addressing some of the root causes of conflict.
“There is also the ongoing process to integrate tourism into Nigeria’s education system, an initiative designed to foster a deep appreciation for cultural heritage from an early age.
“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,” said the minister.
Continuing, the minister assured that sustainable tourism, which respects local communities and the environment, is central to her Ministry’s Agenda, noting 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 Honourable Minister reaffirms the country’s commitment to using tourism as a force to drive development and growth in the society.
“By fostering international partnerships, preserving cultural diversity, and creating opportunities for marginalized 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.”
Ade-John, therefore, enjoined all industry stakeholders, including, those at the various tiers of governments, private enterprises to the local communities, to ‘work together in building a tourism industry that promotes peace, fosters development, and uplifts the most vulnerable among us.’
The Friday grand finale was preceded by a Road Walk, earlier Thursday in Abuja.
The WTD Road Walk which had kicked off from the Old Parade Ground Area 1, in Abuja, Thursday morning, was declared open by the minister, and involved staff of the Ministry of Tourism alongside other participants drawn from its agencies, including those at the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Tourism Department.
Others who participated at the event included members of private sector operators’ groups like the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN).
The grand finale also featured Goodwill Messages delivered by dignitaries including; the First Deputy President of FTAN, Alh. Badaki Aliyu, who represented the federation’s President, Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, as well as the Chairman, FTAN Board of Trustees (BOT), Alh. Munzali Dantata.
The WTD celebration’s event which held inside the Exhibition Pavillion, opposite Radio House, Garki, in Abuja was coloured by cultural performances by the FCT cultural troupes.
