Connect with us

    News

    Wike seeks collaboration with EU to strengthen FCT’s economy

    Published

    11 months ago

    on

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has sought the collaboration of the European Union (EU) to strengthen the economy of the federal capital, Abuja.

    Wike made the appeal when the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms Samuela Isopi, visited him in his office in Abuja on Monday.

    He said that the EU could partner with the FCT Administration in the areas of agriculture, tourism, and security.

    The minister said that FCT was open for cooperation and investments in the aforementioned areas towards building a viable economy in FCT.

    According to him, increased cooperation, and partnership in agriculture, tourism and security will help to unlock the economic potentials of the FCT and create jobs for the teeming populace of the city.

    He expressed optimism that the visit of the Ambassador would create something tangible that would impact on the lives of the residents of the city.

    Wike, who said he did not believe in mere visits, stressed the need to finalise on what needed to be done.

    “Not just coming to tell me we are here to partner with you, we are here to work with you.

    “It is good, but at the end of the day, the people will want to see what the achievements are, which for me, is a priority.

    “You know that Abuja is one of the best cities in terms of available facilities. The landscape is beautiful, and it is a tourist and agricultural area.

    “These are areas we can partner with you sincerely.

    “Maybe, when we meet with the member countries, it becomes specific, which of these areas we can deal with, maybe agriculture, tourism, and security as the case may be,” the minister added.

    He added that as part of the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu, Wike said that the FCT Administration had submitted a proposal for the establishment of a Secretariat that would deal with women development issues.

    This, he said, would ensure inclusion and promote the participation of women in governance.

    Earlier, the EU Ambassador, said that the Union was refocusing its cooperation towards improving agricultural value chains and renewable energy.

    This, according to her, would assist Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.

    Related Topics:
    Continue Reading
    Click to comment

    Leave a Reply

    News

    Nigeria’s poor infrastructure holds back tourism growth

    Published

    19 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