As the global community unites to mark World Tourism Day (WTD) 2024 with the theme “Tourism and Peace,” Nigeria’s Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to using tourism as a force for promoting peace, fostering understanding, and driving economic development. She spoke during the celebration marking 2024 WTD. She highlighted the vital role of tourism in advancing national and global peace efforts, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for national prosperity.

The Minister reflected on the profound impact of tourism beyond its traditional economic contributions, noting that tourism brings people and cultures together, helping to dissolve prejudices and build mutual respect. She emphasizes that, in today’s world, where divisions are more pronounced, tourism serves as a bridge to foster harmony. “Tourism is more than an industry; it is a pathway to peace and reconciliation,” Minister Ade-John remarks.

She references projections from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) showing that Nigeria’s tourism sector is set to create 2.6 million new jobs in the coming decade, contributing ₦12.3 trillion to the economy by 2032. While these figures illustrate immense economic potential, the Minister stresses that the true power of tourism lies in its ability to foster unity, break down barriers, and support inclusive growth.

“Every interaction between a visitor and a host is an opportunity to build bridges of understanding,” she says. “Our goal is not only to promote Nigeria’s beauty and culture but to leverage these experiences to create a peaceful and prosperous nation.”

In her address, Ade-John outlined a series of strategic actions that unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector. The Ministry is focused on driving sustainable development through a robust National Tourism Policy in collaboration with the Nigeria Economic Summit Group and the Tourism Development MasterPlan, which are both being revitalized under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. A key component of this plan is the reactivation of the Presidential Council on Tourism, aimed at providing the leadership and framework necessary to steer the industry forward.

Additionally, the Minister discussed ongoing efforts to embrace digital transformation within the tourism industry. This involves leveraging technology to improve Nigeria’s tourism infrastructure, including the creation of a comprehensive tourism database, website, mobile app, and virtual tours. These initiatives, supported by private sector partnerships with companies like Cavista Holdings, are designed to make Nigerian tourism more accessible and appealing to global audiences while empowering the country’s tech-savvy youth.

She also emphasized the importance of reinvigorating Nigeria’s tourist attractions, such as the Obudu Mountain Resort and Yankari Game Reserve, through collaboration with state governments. These partnerships, focused on infrastructure development and investment, aim to enhance visitors’ experiences while stimulating local economies.

Ade-John’s vision for tourism in Nigeria extends beyond economic growth, as she stresses the need for community-based tourism programs that uplift local communities, especially women and youth. Through initiatives such as the EcoGenesis Incubator Series, the Ministry is committed to skills development and entrepreneurship, providing opportunities for Nigerians to fully participate in the benefits of tourism. These efforts are directly tied to reducing poverty and fostering peace within communities, addressing some of the root causes of conflict.

Further, the minister discussed the integration of tourism into Nigeria’s education system, an initiative designed to foster a deep appreciation for cultural heritage from an early age. In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the inclusion of tourism and history subjects into the national curriculum ensures that future generations understand the significance of Nigeria’s rich cultural landscape, helping to promote both tourism and national unity.

Minister Ade-John stressed that sustainable tourism, which respects local communities and the environment, is central to the Ministry’s Agenda. She believes that by promoting eco-friendly travel, Nigeria can protect its natural treasures while fostering a sense of pride and ownership among its citizens, leading to more peaceful and harmonious communities.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s tourism potential, the Honourable Minister reaffirms the country’s commitment to using tourism as a force for good. By fostering international partnerships, preserving cultural diversity, and creating opportunities for marginalized communities, Nigeria’s tourism sector is poised to make significant contributions to both national development and global peace-building efforts.

“Our tourism industry is growing at an incredible rate,” Minister Ade-John concludes. “With President Tinubu’s visionary leadership and our collective efforts, we have an unprecedented opportunity to leverage this growth not just for economic gain, but for peace and prosperity. Let us move forward with the understanding that every journey, every interaction, can be a step toward a more peaceful and united world.”

The Honourable Minister’s call to action invites all stakeholders – from governments and private enterprises to local communities – to work together in building a tourism industry that promotes peace, fosters development, and uplifts the most vulnerable among us.