As the world marked the 45th World Tourism Day, former Senator Haliru Jika threw his weight behind the SEE Bauchi Initiative, a plan to build a $10 billion sustainable ecotourism economy in Bauchi State that protects ecosystems, celebrates cultural heritage, and empowers local communities.

In a statement, Jika described the initiative as proof that tourism, when guided by sustainability, can deliver immense value by creating 253,000 green jobs, planting 253 million trees, and building an economy that benefits not just visitors but all citizens.

“As the United Nations has emphasized, tourism must evolve: growth without sustainability risks undermining the very assets — people, culture, and environment — on which the sector depends,” he said.“SEE Bauchi embodies this principle. It represents a bold shift from extractive tourism models toward a regenerative, inclusive, and climate-conscious framework.

“”By embedding sustainability, resilience, and social equity at the heart of its design, the initiative positions Bauchi not only as a tourism destination but as a global model of how tourism can transform lives while protecting the planet.

”Jika, who represented Bauchi Central in the 9th Senate, explained that the initiative aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those that promote decent work and economic growth, responsible consumption and production, and sustainable tourism that minimises waste while maximising community benefits.

He added that SEE Bauchi advances the African Union’s vision of inclusive growth, cultural renaissance, and sustainable environmental management.

Malam Yahaya Mohammed, Programme Director of the Bauchi Buddie Initiative, welcomed SEE Bauchi, saying it gives communities ownership of their future.

“From eco-volunteers and youth guides to cultural entrepreneurs and biodiversity guardians, our communities will be the drivers of this transformation. When tourism is inclusive, it becomes not just an industry, but a way of life that unites environment, economy, and culture,” he said.

Victor Wilkinson Agih, Programme Director at Culture Money Africa, described tourism as “one of the most powerful currencies of culture and exchange.”“With SEE Bauchi, we are proving that cultural identity and biodiversity are not only priceless, but bankable.

By integrating heritage, green finance, and sustainable infrastructure, Bauchi is setting a standard for how Africa can lead in the global tourism economy,” he added.

He noted that Bauchi’s unique landscapes, including Yankari Game Reserve, Lame-Burra Forest, Sumu Wildlife Park, and the Gongola River wetlands, will be protected and leveraged through Bauchi Biodiversity Credits to attract green finance and carbon market investments.