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    LASWA formalises handover of Ito Omu Jetty, paving the way for enhanced water transportation

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    Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has officially handed over the Ito Omu Jetty to a concessionaire with the support of the Onitoomu of Ito Omu Ancient Town, His Royal Majesty, Oba Taiwo Yusuff Gbadamosi.

    The handover ceremony, which took place on December 14th, marks a pivotal moment in the effort to enhance water transportation infrastructure and connectivity in the region.

    The Ito Omu Jetty, now in the hands of the concessionaire, is a strategic hub equipped with secure floating pontoons, ensuring a safe and efficient experience for passengers during embarkation and disembarkation. This development is set to revolutionize water travel possibilities, offering exciting new routes and improved convenience for commuters.

    Expanded travel options

    With the formal handover, the Ito Omu Jetty now opens up a host of thrilling travel possibilities for passengers. Among the new routes introduced are journeys to Addax (Victoria Island), Falomo-Ikoyi, and Law School (Victoria Island). This expansion of routes is expected to provide commuters with more choices and improved accessibility to key locations within Lagos.

    Convenient Access to Badore

    Simultaneously, the Ito Omu Jetty introduces a convenient travel option to Badore, providing a vital link for residents and businesses in the area. The enhanced connectivity is poised to alleviate transportation challenges and reduce travel time for individuals commuting to and from Badore.

    LASWA’s Commitment to Water Transportation

    The formal handover of the Ito Omu Jetty is emblematic of LASWA’s commitment to advancing water transportation in Lagos State. By partnering with concessionaires, LASWA aims to leverage private sector expertise and resources to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of waterways across the state.

    Improved Passenger Experience

    The inclusion of secure floating pontoons at the Ito Omu Jetty is a crucial component of the initiative to enhance passenger safety and comfort. These pontoons ensure a stable and secure platform for embarkation and disembarkation, contributing to an improved overall travel experience for those utilizing the jetty.

    Future Prospects for Water Transportation

    As Lagos State continues to invest in the development of its water transportation infrastructure, the handover of the Ito Omu Jetty sets the stage for further advancements in the sector. The government’s vision is to create a robust and integrated water transportation system that complements existing modes of transportation, easing congestion on road networks and providing efficient alternatives for commuters.

    Community Impact and Economic Growth

    The improved connectivity facilitated by the Ito Omu Jetty is expected to have a positive impact on local communities, fostering economic growth and facilitating easier access to educational and commercial centers. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to create a sustainable and interconnected urban environment in Lagos State.

    The formal handover of the Ito Omu Jetty is a testament to the commitment of LASWA and the Lagos State government to redefine water transportation in the region.

    The enhanced infrastructure, expanded travel options, and improved passenger experience signify a step towards a more accessible, efficient, and integrated transportation network in Lagos State.

     

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    Nigeria’s poor infrastructure holds back tourism growth

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    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.

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    President Tinubu commended for backing Ipada initiative to boost Nigerian tourism

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    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.

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    Akwaaba travel market 2024 to grant N5m in tourism support

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    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.

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