The Executive Director and CEO of the Katsina State History and Culture Bureau, Dr. Kabir Ali Masanawa, has called for stronger collaboration among Nigeria’s states, saying the country can become a major tourism powerhouse by linking its diverse festivals, cultural assets, and regional value chains. Speaking at the Naija7Wonders Zoom Conference on “Festivals & Tourism in Nigeria: A New Pathway,” Masanawa argued that Nigeria possesses an extraordinary range of cultural experiences that, if properly coordinated, could create one of Africa’s most compelling tourism offerings.
According to him, festivals such as the Durbar in Northern Nigeria, cultural events in the South-South, and heritage celebrations across the country should be integrated through a national tourism calendar that encourages movement between destinations. “If we coordinate our festivals and cultural events through a structured calendar, the possibilities are enormous. Nigeria can become a major tourism asset built around its unique cultural diversity,” he said.
Masanawa described the Durbar as more than a cultural spectacle, noting that it represents centuries of history, craftsmanship, equestrian traditions, and economic activity. He explained that Katsina’s Durbar features thousands of horses and elaborate processions rooted in centuries-old traditions, making it one of the most significant cultural attractions in the country. The tourism administrator also highlighted the importance of developing stronger domestic value chains to support festival tourism.
Using the leather industry as an example, he noted that Katsina produces high-quality hides that are exported and processed abroad before being transformed into luxury products. “The hides come largely from Northern Nigeria, while expertise in leather products exists in other parts of the country. There is an opportunity for collaboration that can strengthen our tourism and creative economy value chains,” he said. Masanawa pointed to opportunities for partnerships between Northern producers of hides and leather and artisans in Southeastern Nigeria renowned for leather craftsmanship, arguing that such cooperation could help retain more economic value within the country.
He also stressed the importance of preserving and promoting Nigeria’s history, citing Katsina’s ancient artifacts, museums, traditional institutions and historic sites as assets that can attract domestic and international tourists. The Katsina tourism chief further called for increased private sector involvement in festival development, sponsorship, destination marketing, and cultural content creation. According to him, tourism stakeholders must work collectively to tell Nigeria’s story from a Nigerian perspective while showcasing the country’s rich heritage to the world.
“Our festivals are not just celebrations; they are economic platforms, cultural classrooms, and opportunities for national integration. If we work together, tourism can become one of Nigeria’s strongest economic sectors,” he said. Masanawa concluded by urging stakeholders to see tourism as a national development tool capable of preserving heritage, creating jobs, strengthening cultural identity, and fostering unity across the country.
