Establish Automated, Dedicated Tourism Board – Expert Tasks FG
BY ABDULWAHEED OLAYINKA ADUBI, KADUNA – An expert in the tourism industry, Mr. Tobi Bernard Thomas, has canvassed the urgent need for the establishment of an automated and dedicated tourism board to coordinate and promote tourism development in Nigeria.
This was just as he tasked governments at all levels in the country, to as a matter of national importance, prioritise the inbound and outbound tourism in Nigeria.
Thomas said that the Nigerian government can take a cue from thriving destinations like Rwanda, Kenya, Saudi Arabia, Spain, China, India, among others.
In his words; “For tourism development, Nigerian government should develop and implement a national tourism policy, and enhance security and safety measures to ensure tourist safety in the country”.
Thomas, who stated these in Kaduna on Sunday, January 5, 2025 while chatting with journalists as part of the celebration of the New Year, noted that the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) has been working to promote tourism since 1962 and now, the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA).
He said that despite the efforts, more needed to be done in the industry to unlock the country’s vast tourism potential, adding that the government need to focus more on infrastructural development by upgrading and expanding airports, seaports, roads and hotels to provide a seamless experience for tourists.
Thomas also opined that the Nigerian government should showcase and preserved the country’s rich cultural heritage, including historic sites, festivals and traditional arts.
This is just as he said that the promotion of the Nigerian craftsmanship, art and culture through exhibitions, festivals and workshops would help the sector to grow, and contribute positively to the GDP of the country.
