By Monday Ajogun
The Federal Government has assured Edo residents of its commitment to partner with the state government to unlock and develop it’s vast tourism potential.
The Director-General of the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Dr Ola Awakan, gave the assurance on Monday in Benin, at the opening of the two-day Tourism Summit, Exhibition and Fashion Show.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event is organised by the Edo Tourism Agency.
Awakan noted that Edo’s abundant tourism resources could only be fully harnessed through strategic collaboration among government, the private sector and other critical stakeholders.
According to him, the tourism potential in Edo cannot be harnessed in isolation. Strong synergy is required, particularly with the private sector.
“We must work together to unlock the immense opportunities within the sector.”
He also noted that Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage presented a unique opportunity to reshape the country’s image on the global stage.
“Nigeria is not a country defined by violence or insecurity. We are a people blessed with rich culture, enduring traditions and remarkable artistic heritage.
“We must work together to change the negative narrative about our country by telling our stories through arts and culture. I am confident that this summit will produce a practical master plan that will drive tourism development,” he said.
The NTDA director general further described tourism as one of the world’s fastest-growing economic sectors.
He said that it contributed significantly to employment generation, foreign exchange earnings, infrastructure development, cultural preservation and community empowerment.
Earlier in her keynote address, the Director-General of the Edo Tourism Agency, Mrs Vivian Elabor, said participants, investors, tourists and cultural ambassadors had gathered with a shared vision of unlocking the state’s immense tourism potential.
Elabor noted that Edo had long been recognised as a leading destination for culture, heritage, investment and sustainable development.
According to her, the state is endowed with a rich history, remarkable cultural heritage, world-renowned arts and crafts, historical monuments, colourful festivals and unique ecological attractions, all of which provide a strong foundation for a vibrant tourism economy.
“This summit is therefore designed to promote meaningful dialogue on digital transformation, investment opportunities, community partnerships, sustainability and innovation in tourism development.
“The partnerships forged here will play a significant role in shaping the future of tourism in our state,” she said.
Elabor commended Gov. Monday Okpebholo for his unwavering support to the tourism sector and for recognising its strategic role in achieving economic diversification under the SHINE Agenda.
She urged investors and development partners to take advantage of the opportunities available in the state.
“I encourage investors and development partners to see Edo as a land of opportunities.
“We are open to collaboration and committed to creating an enabling environment for tourism and the creative economy to thrive,” she added.
Also speaking, the Secretary to the Edo Government, Mr Musa Ikhilor, highlighted the state’s numerous tourism assets and stressed the need to harness and digitise them to enhance their visibility and economic value.
He urged residents to become tourism ambassadors by promoting Edo’s historical monuments, cultural heritage and tourist attractions.
Ikhilor said that such efforts would inspire more visitors to explore the state and boost its tourism industry.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
AJOM/DCO