Abuja: The Federal Government has committed to partnering with the Edo State Government to unlock and develop the state’s vast tourism potential. The Director-General of the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Dr. Ola Awakan, provided this assurance in Benin during the opening of a two-day Tourism Summit, Exhibition, and Fashion Show.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event was organized by the Edo Tourism Agency. Awakan emphasized that Edo’s abundant tourism resources could only be fully harnessed through strategic collaboration among the government, private sector, and other critical stakeholders. He noted that the tourism potential in Edo could not be realized in isolation and called for strong synergy, particularly with the private sector, to unlock the immense opportunities within the sector.
Awakan also highlighted Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage as a unique opportunity to reshape the country’s image on the global stage, stating, “Nigeria is not a country defined by violence or insec
urity. We are a people blessed with rich culture, enduring traditions, and remarkable artistic heritage.” He expressed confidence that the summit would produce a practical master plan to drive tourism development.
Furthermore, Awakan described tourism as one of the world’s fastest-growing economic sectors, contributing significantly to employment generation, foreign exchange earnings, infrastructure development, cultural preservation, and community empowerment.
Earlier, Mrs. Vivian Elabor, Director-General of the Edo Tourism Agency, delivered a keynote address stating that participants, investors, tourists, and cultural ambassadors had gathered with a shared vision of unlocking the state’s immense tourism potential. She highlighted Edo’s recognition as a leading destination for culture, heritage, investment, and sustainable development and emphasized the state’s rich history and remarkable cultural heritage.
Elabor explained that the summit was designed to promote meaningful dialogue on digital transformat
ion, investment opportunities, community partnerships, sustainability, and innovation in tourism development. She praised Governor Monday Okpebholo for his unwavering support of the tourism sector and urged investors and development partners to seize the opportunities available in the state.
Additionally, Mr. Musa Ikhilor, Secretary to the Edo Government, spoke about the state’s numerous tourism assets and stressed the need to harness and digitize them to enhance their visibility and economic value. He encouraged residents to become tourism ambassadors by promoting Edo’s historical monuments, cultural heritage, and tourist attractions, which would inspire more visitors to explore the state and boost its tourism industry.