Stakeholders rally cooperation on world tourism day

As Nigeria joined the rest of the world to celebrate the United Nations World Tourism Day, the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), has rallied members and stakeholders to work with the Federal Government (FG) to drive tourism business.

President of FTAN, Nkerewuem Onung, said the new normal has revealed the need for a strategic action plan that must bring tourism stakeholders together and create projects that benefit all.

Onung said they are determined to bring something new to the table and also be mindful of the fact that the Ministry of Tourism and its 10 agencies are pivotal to FTAN dreams in ensuring no industry player or viable cultural tourism projects are left behind.

He stated that government must help the industry back to its feet, though he wondered why the palliatives promised to the industry associations and players were yet to materialise.

He added that the government must through such interventions, prove that it cares and also appreciates the critical presence and job-creating values of the avant-garde cultural tourism industry.

”I must commend the resilience and doggedness of the private sector for the rebound of the sector after the COVID-19 regulations ambushed its growth and also without help anywhere, with unforgettable lessons learnt that time has come for us, government and the private sector to work together and not leave anyone behind,” he said.

Speaking further on the sidelines of the Kebbi State-sponsored outing, aided by National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) to mark the day, themed: All-inclusive tourism.” Onung commended the state government for taking up the financial burden to give Nigeria a podium to celebrate the global festivity, thereby showcasing the rich cultural and agro-tourism economy of Kebbi state that is noted for its rice pyramid.

“Tourism industry has the capacity to sell the rice paddy fields of Kebbi to the world and also create tour jobs and opportunities for recreation, and hospitality diversities to thrive and grow into a new economy. Yes, we may have security challenges but it has been proven that if the government and the private sector join hands together, refreshing narratives about our country, our people and culture can help douse socio-political tension, which is fueling individualism and insecurity,” FTAN President said.