The Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy has reaffirmed its commitment to positioning Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s domestic tourism revival.
Delivering the keynote address at the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market, held at Eko Hotel Convention Centre in Lagos, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad called for deeper collaboration among African countries to grow the continent’s tourism industry.
The three-day travel expo, which ran from September 14–16, attracted exhibitors, stakeholders, and visitors from over 20 countries.
Dr. Muhammad commended Akwaaba’s evolution over the last two decades from a trade fair into a hub of innovation, collaboration, and cultural celebration
“Akwaaba has become more than just a travel fair; it is now a continental hub of ideas, innovation, and partnerships,” he said.
“Through initiatives like the Africa Food Fair, Medical Tourism sessions, Youth Tourism Conference, and the Africa Travel 100 Awards, it has consistently positioned Africa as a compelling destination for leisure and business.”
On this year’s theme, “Domestic Tourism in Africa,” which resonated strongly with the Ministry’s current agenda, Dr. Muhammad noted that sustainable tourism begins with citizens exploring and appreciating their own heritage, landscapes, cuisine, and creative industries.
“In Nigeria, we have prioritized domestic tourism as a driver of national development,” he explained. “We are advancing initiatives in community-based tourism, upgrading infrastructure, strengthening creative industry linkages, and encouraging private-sector partnerships.”
He added that the Ministry is reviewing Nigeria’s National Tourism Policy and invited stakeholders at Akwaaba to contribute to the process.
In the area of showcasing the country ‘s heritage, he said Nigeria’s presence at Akwaaba this year spotlighted its vast cultural and creative assets, ranging from heritage exhibitions to youth-driven innovation.
Dr. Muhammad emphasized that with over 200 ethnic groups, diverse ecosystems, and iconic monuments, Nigeria is well positioned to lead Africa’s domestic tourism renaissance.
He also called for increased investment and partnerships in tourism-related sectors such as hospitality, aviation, technology, and youth empowerment.
Dr. Muhammad outlined five key priorities to ensure the growth of tourism across the continent including building stronger intra-African travel networks and reducing barriers to movement as well as Investing in youth and equipping them with tourism and hospitality skills and reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to working with Akwaaba organizers, African partners, and the international travel community to build a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous tourism sector.
“The future of African tourism depends on us,” he stressed. “Together, we can create a thriving industry that celebrates our heritage, empowers our people, and contributes to sustainable economic growth.”
The 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market closed on a high note, reinforcing its reputation as West Africa’s premier tourism platform.
by Chioma Ezike
SOURCE: radionigerialagos.gov.ng
