The umbrella body of operators and other stakeholders in the tourism industry, the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria, has hailed President Bola Tinubu for establishing a dedicated ministry for the tourism sub-sector of the economy ‘after many years of advocacy.’
FTAN commended the President for ‘heeding the collective voice of the industry and recognizing the immense potential that lies within the tourism sector’ in creating a separate ministry for it in his new cabinet.
In the FTAN statement issued by its President, Nkereuwem Onung, he opined that the decision to accord the industry a separate ministry “speaks volumes about the government’s commitment to harnessing the socio-economic benefits that tourism offers, while also acknowledging the crucial role tourism plays in cultural preservation, community development, and global representation.”
While appreciating Tinubu’s gesture, Onung added that the move “underscores a momentous milestone in the advancement of our nation’s vibrant tourism industry.”
Tourism operators and other stakeholders had mounted a media siege to the Federal Government calling for a separate Ministry of Tourism in order for the sector to fully actualise its full potential and economic contribution to the country’s economic growth.
The new ministry is headed by Ms Lola Ade-John, described as a banker and a seasoned Information and Technology expert.
Ms Ade-John is regarded as a leader in designing, integrating, deploying, and managing core systems for global banking institutions.
With the creation of a Tourism Ministry, it is expected that more agencies and parastatals will be added to it to beef up the new ministry, in addition to the existing two agencies operating in the old Ministry of Culture and Information.
Presently, only the National Institute for Tourism and Hospitality and the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation cater for the demands of the subsector.
It would also be recalled that the immediate past minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, who also oversaw affairs of tourism, was recently officially appointed the Special Adviser to the Secretary General of the United Nations World tourism Organisation, Zurab Pololikashvili.
In a congratulatory letter from FTAN to the pioneer Minister of Tourism, Ade-John, the group pledged the support of the entire tourism industry operators to “collaborate closely and leverage our collective expertise to support your efforts in propelling the Nigerian tourism industry to unprecedented heights.”
According to Onung, the new minister’s “expertise in IT positions you to leverage innovative digital solutions, enhance destination marketing strategies, and ensure seamless digital experiences for both domestic and international tourists.”
Continuing, Onung enthused that “this intersection of IT and tourism promises to drive efficiency, accessibility, and global competitiveness within our industry.”
“On behalf of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), we commend and applaud President Bola Tinubu for heeding the collective voice of the industry and recognizing the immense potential that lies within the tourism sector as this speaks volumes about the government’s commitment to harnessing the socio-economic benefits that tourism offers, while also acknowledging the crucial role tourism plays in cultural preservation, community development, and global representation.
“This significant step of creating a stand-alone ministry dedicated to tourism underscores a momentous milestone in the advancement of our nation’s vibrant tourism industry.
“We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to all individuals and organizations who tirelessly advocated the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Tourism. The united effort of the tourism community, industry stakeholders, and supporters has paved the way for this historic development, and we are grateful for their unwavering commitment and passion.
“As the world becomes increasingly digitized, technology is shaping the way travelers explore, book, and experience destinations. Your expertise in IT positions you to leverage innovative digital solutions, enhance destination marketing strategies, and ensure seamless digital experiences for both domestic and international tourists. This intersection of IT and tourism promises to drive efficiency, accessibility, and global competitiveness within our industry.
“As FTAN, we stand ready to collaborate closely with your esteemed office and leverage our collective expertise to support your efforts in propelling the Nigerian tourism industry to unprecedented heights.
“We believe that under your visionary leadership, the industry will not only experience growth but will also contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic diversification, job creation, and cultural enrichment.
“Our commitment to working hand-in-hand with you is unwavering. We pledge to galvanize the tourism industry, unify our diverse voices, and collectively work towards the shared goal of unlocking the full potential of tourism for the betterment of our nation.
“Together, we can pave the way for a future where Nigeria stands prominently on the global tourism stage, showcasing its rich heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.”
