Nigeria seeks more private sector investment in tourism

Vice President Namadi Sambo (L)

Nigeria seeks more private sector investment in tourism
Lawan Hamidu-Abuja

The Nigerian government has called for more private sector investment in the tourism sector to create more employment opportunities.

President Goodluck Jonathan made the call on Saturday at the 7th Abuja National Carnival in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

The President, who was represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo, said all tiers of governments including stakeholders and groups should key into the vibrant tourism sector which promises enormous return for investment and employment opportunities for the youth.  

He said: “The Nigeria government is committed to engendering the requisite enabling environment to promote the rapid and sustained growth of the tourism sector of our national economy”.

President Jonathan pointed out the his administration had resolved to effectively diversify the economic base of Nigeria away from over-dependence on oil and gas to other sectors with huge potentials such as agriculture and tourism.

‘Enduring platform for peace’

He commended the organisers of the Carnival tagged “Carnival of Reconciliation” and observed that it had created an enduring platform for the promotion of unity, peace, social cohesion and integration amongst the citizens.

The Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mr Edem Duke, remarked that the tourism sector of the world economy has provided employment to about 250 million people and that about one billion people worldwide would be travelling next year thereby boosting the tourism industry. 

The Minister noted that the Ministry had evolved a strategic plan to meaningfully engage the organised private sector in the structured development of the sector as an integral part of national transformation agenda.

He urged the private sector to also invest in the sector.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, who was represented by the Minister of State, Mrs Olajumoke Akinjide, pledged the FCT administration’s support to the success of the Carnival.

This year’s Carnival witnessed the participation of foreign countries such as India, Trinidad and Tobacco.

Contingents from the 36 states of the Federal Republic of Nigeria showcased the rich cultural heritage of each state as well as fashion parade.

The Carnival was introduced in 2005 as a platform for showcasing the strength and beauty of the nation’s uniquely rich cultural diversity.

Williams