Nigerian Government ready to boost tourism’s GDP contribution

The Nigerian Minister of Tourism, Ms. Lola Ade-John, has reaffirmed the government’s dedication to revitalizing and diversifying the country’s economy by repositioning the tourism sector.

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This aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration in Nigeria.

The minister revealed this while engaging with members of the Association of Nigerian Journalists and Writers of Tourism (ANJET) during a meeting in Lagos, Southwest Nigeria.

The Minister stated that the ministry intends to involve local community leaders in preserving and promoting recognized national tourism assets.

She acknowledged the setback the industry had faced in the past saying “We cannot afford to remain stagnant.’

While outlining strategic initiatives undertaken by her and aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s tourism sector as a key economic driver, the minister disclosed some of her ministry’s recent proactive measures taken in that direction to include the revival of essential documents, like the Presidential Tourism Council, Tourism Master Plan, and comprehensive inventories of tourism assets spanning federal, state, and local government jurisdictions.

According to her, these initiatives signify a concerted effort to create an enabling environment conducive to sustainable tourism development.’

The minister also disclosed that in order to effectively address prevailing challenges such as neglect of cultural and tourism sites, her ministry has outlined plans to engage local community leaders in safeguarding and promoting these national treasures.

“By fostering partnerships with grassroots stakeholders, the Ministry aims to enhance conservation efforts and curb encroachments threatening Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.”

“Also, and in alignment with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Ministry of Tourism is poised to spearhead a paradigm shift in Nigeria’s tourism landscape.” 

“As the nation embraces diversification strategies, the tourism industry stands as a beacon of opportunity, poised to drive economic growth, foster cultural exchange, and showcase Nigeria’s rich heritage to the world,” she says

Earlier, the association, through its President, Mr Victor Nze,

commended Ms Ade-John on her appointment and the inclusive dialogue fostered through the interactive session.

He also reiterated ANJET’s commitment towards collaborating with the Ministry, and its programmes aimed at driving growth, development and sustainability of private sector businesses and operations in the country.

O.O