Nigeria’s Tourism Ministry is leading the charge in promoting domestic travel as a key driver of economic growth and sustainable national development.
By focusing on local tourism, the Ministry aims to boost revenue, create jobs, and enhance regional economies, making it an essential part of the country’s long-term development strategy.
This initiative not only aims to harness the rich cultural and natural heritage of Nigeria but also seeks to reduce the nation’s reliance on international tourism, fostering a more resilient and self-sustaining economy.
The Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy is committed to positioning Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s domestic tourism revival. At the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market, held at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre in Lagos from September 14 to 16, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary emphasized the importance of deeper collaboration among African nations to drive growth within the continent’s tourism industry.
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The three-day event attracted over 20 countries, with exhibitors, stakeholders, and visitors coming together to discuss and promote African tourism. The Ministry’s speech at the event highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to make domestic tourism a cornerstone of national development. The Permanent Secretary outlined the Ministry’s initiatives, aimed at harnessing the potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector, and reinforced the importance of working together to strengthen intra-African tourism networks.
Over the years, Akwaaba has transformed from a modest trade fair into a significant platform for collaboration and innovation within the African tourism sector. The Permanent Secretary expressed appreciation for the event’s evolution, noting that it had become more than just a travel expo. “Akwaaba is now a hub of ideas, innovation, and partnerships,” he said, highlighting the event’s growing impact across the continent. Through initiatives like the Africa Food Fair, Medical Tourism sessions, the Youth Tourism Conference, and the Africa Travel 100 Awards, Akwaaba has succeeded in positioning Africa as an attractive destination for both leisure and business.
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The theme of this year’s Akwaaba, “Domestic Tourism in Africa,” aligns closely with Nigeria’s current tourism agenda. The Permanent Secretary underscored that sustainable tourism starts with citizens exploring their own culture, heritage, landscapes, and cuisine. He pointed out that when people travel within their own countries, it not only promotes national pride but also supports economic growth and strengthens local communities.
In Nigeria, the Ministry has made domestic tourism a priority as part of a broader strategy for national development. The government is advancing several initiatives to support this vision. Community-based tourism, which allows local communities to directly benefit from tourism, has been identified as a critical focus area. In addition, the Ministry is working on improving the country’s infrastructure to make it more conducive to tourism, strengthening the creative industries, and fostering public-private sector partnerships.
One of the Ministry’s key initiatives is a revision of Nigeria’s National Tourism Policy. This update aims to make Nigeria’s tourism framework more responsive to the evolving needs of the sector. The Ministry encouraged stakeholders attending Akwaaba to contribute their insights and recommendations as part of the ongoing policy review process.
Dr. Muhammad highlighted that Nigeria’s presence at Akwaaba this year underscored the country’s vast cultural and creative assets, which include a wealth of heritage sites, monuments, and a rich array of traditions. With over 200 ethnic groups, diverse ecosystems, and iconic landmarks, Nigeria has the potential to lead the continent’s tourism revival. By showcasing its cultural heritage and creative industries, Nigeria has not only highlighted its tourism offerings but has also demonstrated the country’s capacity for innovation in tourism.
The Permanent Secretary also emphasized the importance of increased investment and partnerships in sectors related to tourism, such as hospitality, aviation, and technology. These industries are seen as crucial to the growth of tourism in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. The Ministry has called for greater collaboration between public and private stakeholders to ensure that tourism becomes a major contributor to economic development.
In his address, the Permanent Secretary outlined five key priorities for growing tourism across Africa. These priorities include strengthening intra-African travel networks, which are essential for facilitating movement between African countries, and reducing barriers to travel. By improving travel infrastructure and eliminating restrictive policies, African nations can make it easier for people to explore the continent.
Another critical area of focus is investing in the continent’s youth. By providing young people with tourism and hospitality training, Africa can build a skilled workforce that is ready to support the growing tourism sector. The Permanent Secretary emphasized the need for education and skills development to empower youth and prepare them for leadership roles in tourism.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working with Akwaaba organizers, African partners, and international stakeholders to build a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous tourism sector. Through collaborative efforts, the tourism sector can drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote cultural exchange across Africa.
Nigeria, with its diverse cultural offerings, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history, is poised to become a leader in Africa’s tourism revival. As the country prioritizes domestic tourism, it is positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s travel and tourism sector. By strengthening partnerships, investing in infrastructure, and fostering sustainable practices, Nigeria aims to drive growth within the sector while contributing to the broader goals of Africa’s tourism development.
Nigeria’s Tourism Ministry is championing domestic travel as a key driver for economic growth and sustainable development, aiming to boost local economies, create jobs, and reduce reliance on international tourism.
As the Permanent Secretary concluded, Nigeria is fully committed to leading the way in Africa’s tourism revival, and through its ongoing efforts at Akwaaba and beyond, it is positioning itself as a global tourism destination. With continued collaboration and investment, Nigeria and the rest of Africa can unlock the full potential of their tourism industries, boosting economic growth and creating opportunities for future generations.
SOURCE: travelandtourworld.com
