Connect with us

    News

    Lagos orders immediate closure of Lekki Conservation Centre

    Published

    8 months ago

    on

    The Lagos State government, acting through the Lagos State Safety Commission, has issued a prompt order for the immediate closure of the Lekki Conservation Centre.

    The announcement came from Lanre Mojola, the Director General/CEO of the safety commission, in a post on Instagram on Tuesday evening.

    Mojola cited a viral video illustrating the deteriorating condition of the facility as the basis for this decision. It is noteworthy that the commission had initially communicated this directive on Monday through a post on Facebook.

    What they said

    “Following the viral social media post on the State of the facility at the Lekki Conservation Centre, the Lagos State Government through its agency, Lagos State Safety Commission has directed the immediate closure of the facility and ordered immediate and extensive repairs on affected areas,” the Commission said on Monday in a Facebook post.

    Mojola in his Instagram post stated that the viral video which was recorded in December prompted a rapid response which led to the fixing of the issue stated.

    However, “The LCC has been closed for extensive maintenance since 16th of January. The Lagos Safety Commission and Lagos Ministry of Tourism will continue to monitor the situation for the safety of everyone.”

    Backstory

    In a recent video, an X user identified as Chude Nnamdi expressed concerns about the deteriorating condition of the canopy walk bridge at the center. On Monday, Nnamdi highlighted the precarious state of the structure, cautioning visitors to exercise vigilance due to visible damages.

    “I have been here many times and the previous year will be a testimony to that.
    “This is 49ft above the ground, not even the ground, a swamp look at I saw, look at this. I mean if anyone get fall from here, God forbid what can happen.
    “This has been there for quite a long time, this is a place known to house crocodile and all sorts,” he had said.

    Established in 1990, the center spans 78 hectares (190 acres) and serves as a vital natural resource conservation area. Originally conceived as a biodiversity conservation icon, the facility’s current state raises concerns about its ability to fulfill its intended purpose.

    The management of LCC also issued a press statement stating that the center has been closed for maintenance and will be reopened on February 1, 2024.

    Related Topics:
    Continue Reading
    Click to comment

    Leave a Reply

    News

    Nigeria’s poor infrastructure holds back tourism growth

    Published

    17 hours ago

    on

    September 12, 2024

    By

    Nigeria’s Tourism Infrastructure Challenges

    Nigeria’s poor infrastructure hampers tourism growth, contributing only 3.65% to GDP. Experts urge investment in facilities to unlock the sector’s full potential.

     

    Nigeria’s tourism sector is facing significant challenges due to inadequate infrastructure, preventing it from realising its full potential.

    Currently, the sector contributes just 3.65 percent to the country’s GDP, in stark contrast to France’s 7.5 percent. At the Tourism Conference, Lola Ade-John, the Minister of Tourism, represented by Otoide Ayemere, acknowledged this issue and emphasised the ministry’s focus on improving infrastructure to stimulate growth.

     

    Also read: 20th Akwaaba African travel market set to shine in Lagos with youth tourism focus

     

    Nigeria boasts numerous untapped tourism assets, such as the African Waterfall in Cross River and Kainji Lake in Kaduna, which, with proper investment, could enhance the country’s tourism appeal.

    Paul Kavanagh, general manager of Wheatbaker Hotel, advocated for collaboration between the government and private sector to develop tourism infrastructure, including an international conference centre, hotel management schools, and better marketing strategies.

    While investments like the Banker’s Committee’s renovation of the National Theatre in Lagos signal progress, experts say more needs to be done.

    The revamped theatre, now boasting a 4,000-seater main bowl and other world-class facilities, showcases what could be achieved through targeted infrastructure development.

    Seyi Adewale, CEO of Mainstream Cargo Ltd, highlighted the importance of airport improvements, including transit buses and feeder airlines, which are crucial for enhancing the visitor experience.

    Without these upgrades, Nigeria risks further hindering its tourism potential, despite its wealth of cultural and natural attractions, such as the Obudu Cattle Ranch and the Badagry Slave Route.

    Continue Reading

    News

    President Tinubu commended for backing Ipada initiative to boost Nigerian tourism

    Published

    2 days ago

    on

    September 11, 2024

    By

    President Tinubu tourism initiative

    Chief Mike Amachree praises President Tinubu for supporting the Ipada Initiative, a boost to Nigeria’s tourism industry.

     

    Chief Mike Amachree, one of Nigeria’s foremost tourism experts, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to transforming Nigeria’s tourism industry.

    Amachree, often referred to as the Father of Nigerian Tourism, expressed his admiration for President Tinubu’s support of the Ipada Initiative and Carnival, a private sector initiative led by Otunba Wanle Akinboboye.

     

    Also read: IPADA carnival 2024: A celebration of Nigeria’s culture and unity

     

    The president’s personal endorsement of the Ipada Initiative, which aims to attract international tourists from the Diaspora, was lauded by Amachree as a significant step in reshaping Nigeria’s tourism landscape.

    By assuming the roles of Patron and Chief Global Ambassador for the initiative, President Tinubu has shown the seriousness of his administration in promoting tourism.

    Amachree also highlighted that the president’s creation of a dedicated tourism ministry further signals a strong commitment to the sector’s growth.

    He applauded Otunba Wanle Akinboboye for his unwavering dedication to the tourism industry, noting that the Ipada Initiative could significantly increase international tourist numbers in Nigeria.

    The initiative is scheduled for December and promises to be a major event, showcasing Nigeria’s potential as a global tourist destination.

    Amachree, who has long been involved in the sector, believes the president’s involvement will foster the growth of tourism in the country.

    Continue Reading

    News

    Akwaaba travel market 2024 to grant N5m in tourism support

    Published

    2 days ago

    on

    September 11, 2024

    By

    Akwaaba Travel Market 2024

    The 20th Akwaaba Travel Market will award N5m in grants under the Fatima Garbati Tourism Outreach, supporting tourism media, schools, and travel clubs.

     

    The 20th edition of the Akwaaba Travel Market, West Africa’s largest travel and tourism fair, promises to be a landmark event in 2024.

    Organisers have announced the introduction of a N5 million grant under the *Fatima Garbati Tourism Outreach* to support tourism media, schools, and travel clubs.

     

    Also read: 20th Akwaaba African travel market set to shine in Lagos with youth tourism focus

     

    This initiative honours the late Mrs Fatima Garbati, an advocate for tourism in Africa. The outreach will also launch the annual *Fatima Garbati Award for Tourism Journalism*, celebrating excellence in tourism reporting.

    The organisers aim to promote tourism in Nigeria by providing grants to 10 travel and tourism institutes across the country, with an emphasis on supporting top students, travel clubs, and young tour operators.

    The President of NATOP will also nominate a tour operator for the grant, while five tourism journalists will receive support for their contributions to the industry.

    Akwaaba 2024 will showcase several high-profile exhibitors making their debut at the event, including Mövenpick Hotel & Residence Nairobi, Memorial Healthcare Group from Turkey, and Costa Cruises from Italy.

    These new participants bring diverse offerings, from luxury hospitality to medical tourism and cruise experiences, signalling the growing global interest in Africa’s tourism market.

    Scheduled from 22nd to 24th September 2024 at Eko Hotels & Suites in Lagos, Akwaaba will feature key stakeholders, government officials, and industry professionals, making it a pivotal platform for fostering connections and exploring opportunities in the African travel and tourism industry.

    Continue Reading

    Trending