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Ooni asks Obi, Atiku followers to embrace Tinubu’s govt.

Published

1 year ago

May 10, 2023

Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, has urged all Nigerians, irrespective of party affiliations, to support the government of Bola Tinubu, the president-elect.

The monarch addressed supporters of Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Peter Obi, the candidate of the Labour Party (LP), while speaking in Lagos.

Also Read: EFCC arraigns Lagos businesswoman over alleged N50bn fraud

He was hosting a delegation sent by William Ruto, the president of Kenya, at his Lagos residence.

Present at the event were Francis Koskie, Kenya’s chief of staff; Aliko Dangote, chairman of Dangote Group; Harry Ebohen, CEO of Propetrol; Dapo Abiodun, Governor of Ogun state; and Kunmi Demuren, a fintech executive.

The delegation met with Tinubu for a discussion on how Africa can unite to pursue collective development.

Ooni said it would be best for all Nigerians to be invested in the country’s path forward with Tinubu, regardless of political affiliations.

He said putting Nigeria on the right path to greatness should be a collective effort as the election has come and gone.

“As the presidential inauguration approaches, I beseech you all, young and old, Obidients and Atikulates, hopeful and weary, amiable and passionate, to lay down your arms,” Ooni said.

“There is no reason to waste time looking back; all we have is today and the future. Now is the time to embrace our diversity and uniqueness.

“We may differ in opinions and approaches to achieving a better Nigeria, but we all want a nation we can be proud of. Let us come together to support the vision of Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua.”

After meeting with the delegation, Tinubu said he was ready to partner with other business leaders in his quest to transform Nigeria’s economy.

He said one of his priorities has been to transition Nigeria from a consuming economy to producing one.

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Nigeria’s poor infrastructure holds back tourism growth

Published

17 hours ago

September 12, 2024

Lanre

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

Published

2 days ago

September 11, 2024

Lanre

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.

News

Akwaaba travel market 2024 to grant N5m in tourism support

Published

2 days ago

September 11, 2024

Lanre

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.