At the recent EKAABO Trade Show held in Ibadan, Mr. Adedamola Are, a seasoned hospitality expert and Chairman of Kakanfo Inn and Conference Centre, highlighted Nigeria’s vast, yet largely untapped tourist potential. Addressing the audience, Are emphasized the need for a concerted effort to develop and promote the country’s rich cultural and natural assets. With over four decades of experience in the hospitality industry, he stressed that an intentional approach to enhance infrastructure and promote sustainability is crucial for unlocking the economic benefits of tourism in Nigeria. Are pointed out that the country is overlooking numerous world-class tourist attractions that could significantly contribute to its economy and global image.
Are specifically mentioned several notable yet underrepresented tourist destinations, including Yankari Games Reserve in Bauchi State, Ibeno Beach in Akwa Ibom, Shere Hills in Jos, Mambilla Plateau in Taraba, and Obudu Ranch. He lamented the neglect of these gems, which, if adequately showcased, could attract tourists and generate substantial foreign exchange for Nigeria. Are drew comparisons with countries like Ghana and South Africa, which, despite having fewer unique attractions, successfully draw significant tourist traffic and revenue. He contended that Nigeria possesses a wealth of historical landmarks and cultural narratives that, if highlighted, could position the country as a leading tourist destination on the continent.
In the same event, attention was drawn to the concept of medical tourism, led by former Chief Medical Director of the University College Hospital, Prof. Temitope Alonge. Prof. Alonge noted the significance of educational initiatives, such as the UCH museum, which aims to inspire visiting schoolchildren to envision future contributions to the healthcare sector. By exposing students to advanced medical equipment and practices, the initiative seeks to cultivate a new generation of health professionals dedicated to enhancing the Nigerian healthcare system. This focus on education in the medical field dovetails with the broader theme of promoting Nigeria as a destination for quality medical care, which could further attract international visitors seeking medical treatments.
Supporting the discussion on tourism’s economic impact, Mrs. Oriyomi Pamela Otuka, Curator and Deputy Director of the National Museum of Unity, emphasized the sector’s potential to enhance Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). She argued that as cultural spaces like museums attract visitors, they contribute not only to their personal enrichment but also to the national economy. The influx of tourists keen on experiencing Nigeria’s rich culture underscores the importance of cultural institutions in the tourism landscape. By drawing in large numbers of visitors, these institutions can play a pivotal role in both preserving heritage and boosting economic activity around tourism.
The sentiments expressed by both Are and Otuka reflect a common awareness of the economic and cultural stakes at play in Nigeria’s approach to tourism. While Nigeria features a myriad of attractions that are ripe for development, there exists a gap in promoting these assets effectively. Addressing this gap will require concerted efforts from both public and private sectors, including investments in infrastructure, targeted marketing strategies, and community engagement that aligns local stakeholders with tourism goals.
In conclusion, both discussions at the EKAABO Trade Show highlighted the urgent need for Nigeria to rethink and revitalize its tourism strategy. By recognizing and harnessing its unique cultural and natural resources, Nigeria can transform itself into a competitive destination on the global tourism stage. This transformation could result in increased foreign exchange earnings, job creation, and a greater appreciation of the country’s rich heritage among both locals and international visitors. As the country embarks on this ambitious journey, the shared ideas and initiatives presented at the event signify a growing commitment to leveraging tourism as a vital element of national development.
