Opinion

I’ll explore tourism potentials of Idanre, Ondo Lawmaker, Akingbaso assures

Published

1 year ago

January 8, 2024

The lawmaker representing Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency, Hon. Festus Akingbaso, has expressed his desire to explore the tourism potentials in the Idanre local government area of Ondo State to enhance its economic gains for the development and benefits of the people of the area.

Akingbaso, who noted that tourist attractions in Idanre are capable of turning the fortunes of the state if utilised, said he will join hands with stakeholders in the tourism sector to put Idanre on the global map.

The lawmaker who stated this in Idanre while giving his stewardship at the National Assembly to the people of the constituency said that Idanre Hills, named as a UNESCO Heritage Centre, could generate enough revenue for both the state and the federal government if the needed infrastructure was put into place.

According to him, if the potential is properly explored, by putting in the necessary infrastructure that would make tourists comfortable, things would be changed for the better in the state.

“ You will see a lot of artefacts in Idanre Hills, and you will be amazed. There is no place you can see this in Nigeria.

“There are many ways that Idanre Hills can be developed. Tourism is of prime importance to us. It can be developed if we have a good infrastructure base. There should be a good road network in the community and an adequate power supply to fully harness the benefits of tourism.

“I am liaising with federal government agencies, particularly the National Tourism Board, and showing them what we have and what they can do for us on a short-term and long-term basis.

“Idanre is well blessed. We emphasise the issue of tourism because that is a heritage we have here. We, as a people in Idanre, will prepare a blueprint for tourism.

“ We are a world heritage centre, but we cannot see the benefit, so we will definitely sit down to prepare a policy plan for the Idanre community,” he stated.

He disclosed that culture and tourism, as two components that can enhance the development and growth of society, should be given priority to develop the community.

He said, “We are working hard to make the enlistment processes at Idanre Hills a reality. Immediately after our inauguration, we facilitated a physical joint meeting with Ondo State Government and a meeting is coming up between the state government, the Federal Ministry of Tourism and Culture, the National Commission of Museum and Monuments (NCMM), and stakeholders where the grey areas of the enlistment of Idanre Hills as a UNESCO Heritage Centre will be addressed. ”

Akingbaso, who said that he had not missed any plenary sessions since his inauguration, noted that he had sponsored three different bills, adding that one of the bills was for the establishment of the University of Information and Communications Technology in Idanre.

He stated that if the bill were passed and assented to by President Bola Tinubu, its benefits would be enormous to the constituency in particular and the nation at large.

The lawmaker said that he had facilitated job opportunities for some youths at the federal level, stating that he had appointed 100 youths as his aides in different capacities to reduce the unemployment rate in the constituency.

He promised market women in the constituency frequent empowerment to assist them in the running of their businesses, noting that small-scale businesses contribute immensely to the development of the state economy.

Akingbaso also promised palliatives that would be distributed in chunks across the federal constituency, saying that he had not received bags of rice for palliative measures given to federal lawmakers by President Tinubu.

He assured the vulnerable and the indigent of his continued and adequate support to make life bearable for them in the constituency.

Commending the lawmaker, the Owa of Idanre, Oba Dr. Fredrick Adegunle, Aroloye, said that it was impressive that Akingbaso did not disappoint the federal constituency but had ensured quality representation.

Oba Aroloye enjoined Akingbaso not to relent on his oars, saying that he had been a focus and a good example for other politicians to emulate.

In his words, Dr Kola Ademujimi, former Chief of Staff in the state, said that it was the first time the constituency had a representative who would be giving out feedback to the constituency.

He said, “ He has just spent six months, and he is coming back with feedback. From what he has done and said, I think we are satisfied. He has talked about employment and empowerment.

“ He has supported some of our youths to get jobs, while he has empowered many in different vocations as well. In terms of infrastructural development, HR has equally tried.

“ He did not just start as a member of the House of Representatives; he had been doing something as a private citizen for the community before he got to the National Assembly.

“ He has promised us that he will continue to pursue the bill to create an ICT university in the constituency. He has laid a good foundation, and he can build more on it.”

He asked the state government to do something meaningful as regards Idanre Hills to serve as an impetus for the Federal Department of Tourism to key into the project.

Also, the President of the Idanre Development Assembly( IDA), Dr Anthony Omolola, said that he was very impressed with his accounts of the stewardship of Hon. Akingbaso in the last six months in the National Assembly.

Omolola stated that the constituency needed to motivate and support the federal lawmaker for him to do more and excel in his legislative duties.

“ He has really performed well, and we need to give him all the assistance he needs to be able to deliver more on what we have sent him in Idanre/Ifedore Constituency,” he said.

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Opinion

Ondo monarch calls for tourism investment to boost Nigerian economy

Published

3 months ago

October 28, 2024

Lanre

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.

Opinion

Stakeholders urge sustainable tourism plans for Nigeria

Published

3 months ago

September 30, 2024

Lanre

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.

Opinion

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

Published

4 months ago

September 3, 2024

Lanre

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.”