The Ondo State Government has highlighted the urgent need for Nigeria’s tourism industry to align with global best practices and evolving policy frameworks to fully harness its economic potential. Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa emphasized this point while inaugurating a three-day technical stakeholders’ meeting in Akure, convened by the Ondo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism to validate Nigeria’s Draft National Tourism Policy.
Represented by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Afolabi Adesoji, the Governor noted that the policy review process is well advanced. He explained that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, in collaboration with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), is coordinating the review and soliciting state-level inputs to ensure the policy is inclusive and comprehensive.
Hon. Afolabi reiterated that the state administration is committed to promoting tourism as a driver of socio-economic development, pointing out that the industry’s contribution to global economies demonstrates its potential to stimulate growth and sustainability locally. Permanent Secretary Mr. Adeyemi O. Sule described the national tourism policy as a key instrument for development, capable of fostering infrastructure development, job creation, cultural preservation, and poverty alleviation once fully implemented.
Director of Tourism, Mr. Ade Aderinola, noted that the validation exercise allows states to shape a policy that reflects local realities while aligning with national objectives, emphasizing that people-centered approaches and community participation are essential for a thriving tourism sector. Dr. John Odeniyi of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) highlighted iconic sites like Idanre Hills, Araromi Beach, and Iho Eleru (Cave of Ashes), noting that these assets exemplify Ondo’s vast tourism potential.
The initiative underscores the strategic importance of collaboration between government, private sector stakeholders, and local communities to maximize tourism’s economic impact. By engaging states in the policy validation process, Ondo is fostering a framework that can drive sustainable development, create employment, and elevate Nigeria’s profile in the global tourism landscape.
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