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Key stakeholders in Nigeria’s tourism industry have called on the Federal Government to urgently restore a stand-alone Ministry of Tourism, arguing that the sector possesses enormous untapped potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, attract investments and boost national revenue.
The call was made during a high-level meeting of tourism operators, investors and industry advocates under the aegis of the Bring Back Ministry of Tourism Group held in Abuja.
The stakeholders expressed concern that the current arrangement, which places tourism under the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, has diminished the attention and strategic focus required to unlock the sector’s full potential.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the group stressed that tourism remains one of the world’s fastest-growing industries and could serve as a major catalyst for Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda if given dedicated leadership and institutional support.
Speaking on behalf of the group, its spokesperson, Engr. Phil Roberts, said a stand-alone ministry would provide the policy direction, coordination and visibility needed to transform Nigeria into a competitive global tourism destination.
According to the stakeholders, tourism has the capacity to generate millions of employment opportunities for Nigerian youths, stimulate entrepreneurship, attract both domestic and foreign investments, increase foreign exchange earnings and make significant contributions to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
They further noted that several vast and underutilized areas across the country could be developed into viable tourism destinations, thereby creating economic opportunities for host communities while contributing to peace and security.
The group argued that strategic tourism development could help transform many insecurity-prone areas into centres of economic activity, cultural exchange and sustainable development.
“Tourism is a powerful economic tool capable of changing lives, creating wealth and promoting national unity. With the right institutional framework, Nigeria can harness its rich cultural heritage, natural attractions and historical assets for sustainable growth,” the stakeholders stated.
They therefore appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to consider unbundling the existing ministry and restoring a dedicated Ministry of Tourism to provide focused leadership for the sector.
The stakeholders maintained that such a move would align Nigeria with international best practices and strengthen efforts to position the country as a leading tourism destination in Africa.
They expressed optimism that with renewed government commitment and a stand-alone ministry, the tourism sector could become a major contributor to national development, economic diversification and job creation.
The meeting concluded with a unanimous resolution urging the Federal Government to act swiftly in restoring the Ministry of Tourism, describing the move as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s economic future.
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