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    Economic Growth: Former Commissioner urges FG to harness culture, tourism

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    Former Federal Information and Culture Commissioner in Nigeria, retired Major General Ibrahim Bata Malgwi Haruna has said that Nigeria can use its culture and tourism sector to diversify and grow the economy to an enviable height in the face of dwindling oil revenue.

    He stated this as the chairman of a book Launch in Abuja, Nigeria titled “Harnessing CULTOUR for Economic Growth”

    He said Nigeria is filled with people of diverse culture, scenes, and scenery that could be developed and maintained with necessary facilities to attract local and foreign visitors, from where revenue can be generated for economic growth.

    “There are places like the Obudu Cattle Ranch in Cross River state, the FESTAC,77 building and the artifacts in Lagos state, the Mambila Plateau in Taraba state among others, which at a time were functioning well but due to lack of maintenance, are not as vibrant as before.
    “If people come to Nigeria, we need to show the world who we are, and what we are contributing to history.
    “For example, we can do documentaries on our festivals, which is a big asset and market to the whole world for them to come and see practically.

    “These and many more could be harnessed to generate revenue for the economy,” he said.

    He said the book “CULTOUR” is a wake-up call for responsible leadership at all levels to put their ass together and revive the sector.
    “We have all the materials to make Nigeria great through culture and tourism. It should be part of creativity to make Nigeria great, he said.
    The Book Reviewer, Dr. Elizabeth Ben Iheanacho, a former Director of the National Council for Arts and Culture said the 197-page book contains a new lexicon, “CULTOUR” that tries to fuse culture, tourism, and creativity as a pathway for the economic transformation of the country.

    Going forward, she said the book recommended the review of the 32-year-old policy on Culture and Tourism in Nigeria while suggesting the creation of a Bank of Entertainment like the way the Bank of Industry is operating.

    “It also called for turning of some of our horrific histories into a knowledge hub for economic gain as done in Rwanda.
    “For example, the creation of a war Museum in the North East with documentation on insurgency and the battle against it, enhancement of the war Museum in Umuahia in Abia state, and the Arochukwu slave trade market/route in the South East among others.
    “Rwanda after its civil war is raking in a lot of revenues through such documentation. Research about the sector should always be published.

    “It also recommended that there should be no division of the Culture and Tourism Ministry. Experts and professionals should also manage the ministry just as lawyers and Doctors head the Justice and Health Ministries respectively in Nigeria,” she said.

     

    According to her, the book is valuable for those seeking knowledge, a guide to those who want to venture into the Culture and Tourism sector, and those who are already there.

    She, however, gave a critique that the book is full of words that do not have academic neutrality, are not free of errors, and has excessive usage of the word “CULTOUR.”
    The author, Chuks Akamadu said the book came out of his obsession with the neglect of the culture and tourism sector and and how it can be used to grow the Nigerian economy.

    He said with over 45 percent of Nigeria’s annual budget going into debt servicing, an exchange rate crisis because of the trade imbalance, depleting oil, gas, and mining economy which are not renewable, there was the need for Nigeria to focus on the culture and tourism sector like the way the Asian countries are doing to grow their economy.
    “We need to aggressively engage in creative economy by fusing culture and tourism with creativity as being done by the Asian countries amplified by UAE.

    “They use their culture to influence their architectural designs and services in their hospitality business, which has continued to attract global traffic to the region.
    “What the book CULTOUR intends to do, is to open our eyes to how we chose to be poor amidst prosperity.
    “All we need to do is to open our eyes and embrace CULTOUR,” he suggested.

    The commissioner of Culture and Tourism in Taraba state, who represented the governor Agbu Kefas said the book CULTOUR will be used as a guide in the ongoing revolution in the state’s tourism sector. He said the state has more than 80 different ethnic groups with diverse culture, the biggest of such single concentration in Nigeria.
    The launching attracted dignitaries across Nigeria.

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    Opinion

    Ondo monarch calls for tourism investment to boost Nigerian economy

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    Tourism Investment in Nigeria

    Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, Owa Ale of Ikareland, urges Nigerian leaders to prioritise tourism investment for economic growth and cultural preservation.

     

     

    The Owa Ale of Ikareland, Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, has called on Nigerian government leaders to strengthen the country’s tourism sector, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth.

    Addressing attendees at the 2024 Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Festival in Ikare, Ondo State, he urged federal, state, and local governments to promote tourism as a sustainable source of employment and revenue generation.

     

    Also read: Ondo Governor celebrates Ulefunta festival to drive economic growth

     

    Speaking at the annual festival, which drew visitors from within Nigeria and abroad, the monarch underscored the economic and cultural benefits of tourism, describing festivals as vital for fostering local pride and identity.

    “Our culture is our pride. Government support in tourism investment would not only generate revenue and employment but also enhance our economy,” he remarked.

    The Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Hill, the festival’s focus, holds cultural and historical significance as a symbol of resilience and protection for the Ikare people, dating back to times of inter-tribal conflict.

    The monarch lamented that Nigeria often overlooks its heritage in favour of Western influences, stressing that cultural preservation is essential for national identity.

    Highlighting the growing interest in Yoruba cultural festivals, he praised the community’s dedication to revitalising local heritage, which he said was evident in the large turnout and enthusiasm at this year’s festival.

    A tourist, Peter Ijigbo, also spoke passionately about the cultural importance of such festivals. “Despite my faith as a Christian, this is our heritage, and we cannot turn our backs on it.

    I visited last year, and this festival has always been a spiritual and cultural sanctuary for us,” he said.

    The Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Festival and similar events in Nigeria offer promising avenues for both economic growth and cultural preservation.

    With strategic investments and support, Nigeria’s tourism sector could serve as a significant pillar of the national economy, providing jobs, fostering community engagement, and celebrating the country’s diverse cultural heritage.

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    Opinion

    Stakeholders urge sustainable tourism plans for Nigeria

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    Sustainable tourism in Nigeria

    At a World Tourism Day event in Abuja, stakeholders called for sustainable tourism plans to protect Nigeria’s natural and cultural resources, support local economies, and enhance visitor experiences. They stressed the importance of clean environments, such as Jabi Lake, to boost tourism and create economic opportunities, while minimising environmental harm.

     

    Stakeholders in Nigeria have emphasised the need for sustainable tourism strategies to protect the country’s natural and cultural resources, boost local economies, and improve visitor experiences.

    This call came during a press briefing held to commemorate World Tourism Day in Abuja, following a clean-up exercise at Jabi Lake.

     

    Also read: Nigeria eyes N12.3 trillion tourism gains by 2032, 2.6 million jobs expected

     

    The event was organised by the Eco Club, in collaboration with Jabi Boat Club, Jabi Mall, and Jabi Park.

    World Tourism Day, observed annually on 27 September, highlights the significance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic value.

    The theme for 2024, *Tourism and Peace*, underscores the role of tourism in fostering global understanding and reconciliation.

    Speaking at the event, Aisha Yusuf, Creative Director of Hayche Network and Senior Special Adviser on Sustainable and Accessible Tourism to the Executive Director of Tourism Volunteer Network, advocated for sustainable solutions to maintain tourism in Nigeria.

    “We need to create awareness about sustainable tourism and take ownership of keeping our environment clean,” she stated, calling for both individual and government action to protect destinations like Jabi Lake.

    Omoefe Tawiyah, Managing Director of Platinum X Media and organiser of *Abuja I Believe*, highlighted the economic benefits of a clean and well-maintained Jabi Lake, noting its potential to attract significant tourism investments.

    He remarked, “If properly cleaned, Jabi Lake will become a key destination for tourists and boost the Federal Capital Territory’s economy.”

    Phil Roberts, Executive Director of Tourism Volunteers Network, urged for turning Abuja into a tourism hub. He highlighted the need to enhance infrastructure tourism, which complements natural beauty by developing facilities that attract and sustain tourists.

    “Abuja has numerous tourist sites, and Jabi Lake can become a major tourism destination with the right investment and infrastructure,” Roberts explained.

    The speakers agreed that preserving the environment is essential for sustainable tourism growth, which can contribute to job creation, economic development, and peacebuilding.

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    Opinion

    Nigeria’s 1,091 Tourist Sites Undergoing Revitalisation -Minister

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    Nigeria Tourism Gains by 2032

    Ms. Lola Ade -John, Minister of Tourism, has said that Nigeria has 1,091 tourist sites across the 36 States of the Federation, adding that many of these tourist sites are currently being revitalised.

    Ade-John, who stated this at a pre-summit webinar in preparation for the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES#30), organised by the Tourism and Hospitality Industries Thematic Group (THITG) of the Tourism, Hospitality, Entertainment, Creatives, Culture, and Sports Industries Policy Commission (THECCSPC) of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG),

    highlighted the importance of domestic tourism to Nigeria’s future.

    She noted that these notable sites include Obudu, Ogbunike, Osun-Osogbo Grove, Kajuru Castle, and Yankari Games Reserve, which are improving in terms of historic architecture, wildlife conservation, and ecotourism efforts.

    She explained that the shifting of attention by the Federal Government to domestic tourism, would provide significant job opportunities for rural communities.

    She noted that in 2022, the tourism sector contributed 17.3 billion Naira to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product(GDP), compared to 7.5% of GDP in France.

    The minister further stated that Nigeria also hosts 814 festivals across 774 locations, offering rich cultural experiences.

    Ade-John underscored the need for investment in domestic tourism to revitalise communities, spur entrepreneurship, and generate revenue, noting that the sector currently supports 1.9 million jobs but has significant growth potential.

    In his welcome address, Mr. Udeme Ufot, Co-Chair of THECCSPC of NESG, emphasised that several factors have led Nigerians to favour domestic travel over international options since the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Ufot noted that safety and familiarity are key, as domestic destinations are perceived as safer due to better knowledge of local health and safety protocols.

    He stated that reduced international mobility due to travel restrictions and global conflicts have made local destinations more accessible and convenient, noting that economic considerations also play a role; including the pandemic and political instability which have affected livelihoods, making domestic travel a more affordable option.

    Ufot further expressed hope that the event would generate actionable recommendations to foster inclusive growth, potentially altering trade patterns, attracting investment and enhancing border stability across the continent.

    During the panelists session, Mr. Folorunsho Coker, Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), spoke on the importance of public-private partnerships (PPP), community involvement, and sustainable funding models for promoting domestic tourism.

    He noted that domestic tourism is six times the size of international tourism and is essential for addressing employment issues.

    Mr. Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), discussed the role of media, arts, and culture in developing domestic tourism.

    He highlighted the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to bridge capacity gaps and the importance of story-telling in attracting tourists.

    Ms. Sade Hughes, Managing Director of MIXTA Hospitality Limited, emphasised the impact of innovative real estate and distinctive tourism experiences in revitalising domestic tourism.

    She called for government investment in infrastructure and urged Nigerians to support local brands.

    Ms. Bolaji Mustapha, President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), stressed the need for government support in policy and infrastructure to develop Nigeria’s tourism sector.

    Ms. Adenike Macaulay, Chief Executive Officer of Wakanow, pointed out that the interconnection between music, art, and tourism and the importance of clearly defining tourism attractions to stimulate the economy.

    Ms. Omoyemi Akerele, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Lagos Fashion Week and Style House Files, shared how they have redefined Nigeria’s tourism through fashion and enhanced Lagos nightlife, using fashion week as a tool for ecotourism.

    The theme of the webinar was “Domestic Tourism: A Powerful Tool for Rural Revitalisation and Economic Growth in Nigeria.”

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