By Taiye Olayemi
Mr Ayo Omotosho, organiser of the Africa Youth Tourism Festival, on Wednesday said that about 10 countries would be participating in the maiden edition of the festival.
Omotosho, in a statement said that the countries include Rwanda, Kenya, Botswana, Togo, Ghana, Benin Republic and Zambia.
He explained that the festival, which would hold from April 16 to April 20, was designed to harness the potential in African youths and engage them in tourism activities for self reliance and financial liberation.
According to him, the theme of the festival is “Uniting African Youth for Sustainable Tourism Agenda”.
“We have delegates from over 10 countries who have indicated interest in participating in the Africa Youth Tourism Festival that will hold at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
“The five-day event will feature conference, exhibitions, musicals and cultural display.
“Others are 100 talking drummers, African food carnival, hospitality fiesta, city tour of Lagos, beach tourism party, talent discovery, fashion show and more,” he said.
Omotosho said that Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos would be honoured alongside the Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, for their laudable contributions towards the growth of tourism in the region.
He said that Sanwo-Olu’s remarkable tourism sustainability efforts had spurred the management of the festival to choose him as a beacon of excellence in advancing sustainable initiatives in the sector.
“Gov. Sanwo-Olu would be receiving a prestigious award for his significant contributions to tourism sustainability in the region.
“Lagos State, known as the economic heartbeat of Nigeria, is also a cultural and tourism hub that attracts millions of visitors annually.
“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has placed a strong emphasis on leveraging the state’s rich cultural heritage and natural resources to drive sustainable tourism development.
“Under his leadership, Lagos has witnessed significant improvements in infrastructure, security, and promotion of cultural events and festivals, all aimed at enhancing tourism experience, while preserving the environment and local communities,” he said.
Omotosho noted that one of the key initiatives spearheaded by Sanwo-Olu is the revitalisation of historical sites and monuments across the state.
“By preserving and showcasing these cultural assets, the administration aims to not only attract tourists but also instill a sense of pride and identity among the local population,” he said.
According to him, the tourism minister’s contributions to the sector stands as a beacon of inspiration and progress.
He said the minister had also championed initiatives aimed at empowering African youths to actively participate in and shape the future of the tourism sector.
“Recognising the demographic dividend that Africa’s youthful population presents, the minister has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for young people to engage in tourism entrepreneurship, skill development, and leadership roles.
“The Lagos state Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka and a host of others will also be honoured,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Nkiru Ifeajuna/Folasade Adeniran
