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WTD 2023: Why we give awards to deserving persons – FTAN, honours Eno, Tarzan, Anyanwu

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Dr. Ganiyu Balogun Tarzan receiving his Tourism Icon Brand Award from the Akwa Ibom state’s commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, at the WTD 2023 presentation ceremony at the Vinpy Hotel, in Uyo, the state capital, Wednesday evening

Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) has explained the rationale behind its awards to selected individuals in the society, saying it is guided by the need to recognise the body of commitment and efforts put in over the years by the recipients.

Speaking, Wednesday, on the occasion of the presentation of the prestigious Tourism Icon Brand Award to three personalities, which held on the sidelines of the World Tourism Day (WTD) celebration in Akwa Ibom State, President of FTAN, Mr Nkereuwen Onung, explained that the recipients of the honour have lifted the sector through personal efforts committed to the growth and development of the industry.

Senior Special Advisers to Akwa Ibom State Governor on Tourism; FTAN President, Mr Nkereuwen Onung (right) with NATOP President, Mrs Ime Udo, during the World Tourism Day 2023 celebration at the Silverbird Gallery, Tropicana Hall, Uyo, Wednesday

The Tourism Icon Brand Award recipients include; the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, Dr. Ganiyu Balogun Tarzan, and Eze (Dr.) Igwe Patrick Anyanwu.

Speaking in his welcome address at the event which held at the Vinpy Hotel, in Uyo, the state capital, Wednesday evening, Mr Onung disclosed that the association ‘does not just give awards for the sake of giving awards,’ but instead recognises private sector operators or other individuals ‘who have committed their time, efforts and personal financial resources to lifting the industry.’

“We do so to people for their steadfastness and commitment to the task or occupation they have endeared themselves to towards establishing the industry as we all know today. Without their commitment, most of us would not be here benefiting from the industry as a whole.

“That is what we do. You may not know them but the people who knew them from whence they started working and struggling for the industry will attest to the fact they indeed laboued to grow and develop this industry as we see it today.

“You may not know the story behind their rise to stardom but every time we honour these people, it is for daring to succeed; every time we honour them, we tap into their success, because every time you honour a man, you also tap into his success story.

“We also ensure that when that honour comes, it is based on their efforts, commitment and struggle towards growing the industry,” Onung said.

Participants during the World Tourism Day 2023 in Akwa Ibom at the Silverbird Gallery, Tropicana Hall, Uyo, Wednesday

Continuing, the FTAN president further explained that his association honours recipients based on the body of work deployed by the persons receiving the awards, and not for one achievement recorded by them.

“We honour people who have committed their time, money, and efforts to the industry over the many years of service put in. It is for the body of work put in to grow their businesses, in particular, and the industry as a whole.

“That is the reason we honour people. We give awards not just for giving sake. The recipients may look ordinary to an average person watching, but for those in the industry, we know how much of their personal resources, efforts ad time have been spent struggling to firmly establish their personal businesses or the tourism industry. And what we see today is only a testament of the body of work these recipients have committed into the sector,” Onung said.

Meanwhile, receiving his award for Tourism Icon, Eze Patrick Anyanwu, who also doubles as the President of the Nigeria Hotels Association (NHA), thanked FTAN for the recognition accorded him, and also the Akwa Ibom Government for honouring the FTAN President ‘their son’ with a position in the State Executive Council (SEC), just as he recounted his years of working to grow the hospitality sector of the country’s economy.

Igwe Patrick Anyanwu receiving his Tourism Icon Brand Award from the Akwa Ibom state’s commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, at the WTD 2023 presentation ceremony at the Vinpy Hotel, in Uyo, the state capital, Wednesday evening

On his part, Dr Balogun Tarzan, fondly called ‘The Boatman,’ who also doubles as the President of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and water Transporters Association (ATBOWATON) while thanking FTAN for the honour bestowed him, urged the Akwa Ibom Governor, Umo Eno to work towards empowering boat operators in the state to enable them expand their operations.

“The Akwa Ibom State Government has created the Ibom Air for the air travellers, we want you to also create Ibom Waters so that boat operators can spread their operations to utilise the expansive waterways in the state.

“You can facilitate boats for the operators and collect your money back from them later. A journey from Uyo to Calabar shouldn’t be more than two hours by water, if at all it is more than one hour. This can be achieved by empowering these boat or ferry operators with the necessary tools like boats and outboard engines, so the masses can have access to their own improved means of transportation,” Dr Balogun said.

Responding, however, the Akwa Ibom state’s commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, said the government is putting necessary infrastructure in place to enable water transportation within the state’s territory, just as he explained that inter-state water transportation is not ‘in the hands of the Akwa Ibom State to determine.’

According to the commissioner, issues like security and safety are some of the infrastructure that need to be put in place before the investment into waterways transportation.

Dr. Ganiyu Balogun Tarzan receiving his Tourism Icon Brand Award from the Akwa Ibom state’s commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, at the WTD 2023 presentation ceremony at the Vinpy Hotel, in Uyo, the state capital, Wednesday evening

“I can assure you that the state government has this on its agenda. We are also working on the internal waterways system, by way of putting in place some infrastructure like security. However, we also know that when it involves operations into another state, it’s totally out of our control, as it becomes a federal government matter,” the commissioner explained.

Receiving the award on behalf of the State Governor, Umo Eno, the commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism, Udoh while appreciating FTAN’s gesture, said the government remains committed to establishing Akwa Ibom as a destination of choice in the country, and the world, as the aim is to create a globally recognised tourist destination for it.

Earlier, Wednesday, the FTAN president in his welcome address at the opening of activities lined upo by his association commemorating the WTD in Akwa Ibom State, noted that the theme of this year’s celebration ‘underscores the pivotal role that tourism plays in driving sustainable development and fostering responsible investments in our industry.’

According to Onung, who also commended the Federal Government for carving out the Tourism Ministry from the old Culture, Information and National Orientation setup, the theme further highlights the urgent need for the tourism sector to embrace green investments that promote environmental sustainability and economic growth simultaneously.

“Let me begin by appreciating the President of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating two separate ministries; Tourism and that of Culture and entertainment economy. This makes the theme of this year’s WTD apt because these two ministries will separate budgetary allocation which we believe will enhance investment and create jobs.

“Tourism can bring in the much-needed revenue to local economies, support job creation, and preserve cultural heritage. It can also help to promote cross-cultural understanding and foster positive relationships between people from different backgrounds,” Onung said.

Continuing, the FTAN president advocated the prioritisation of green investment against the backdrop of the potential of tourism on the economy.

Akwa Ibom State Council of Arts and Culture troupe performing during the World Tourism Day 2023 celebration at the Silverbird Gallery, Tropicana Hall, Uyo, Wednesday

“Tourism, as we all know, has the potential to be a powerful engine for economic growth, job creation, and cultural preservation. However, the impact of tourism extends beyond our hotels and attractions; it influences our environment and communities profoundly. Therefore, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that this impact is positive and sustainable.

“To achieve this, we must prioritize green investments that are not only financially lucrative but also environmentally and socially responsible. These investments encompass a wide range of practices, including: Sustainable Infrastructure; Biodiversity Conservation; Community Engagement; and Renewable Energy,” he said.

Onung, therefore, urged members s well as governments on the need to ‘recognize the vital need for green investments to build a tourism sector that delivers for people and planet.;

“Governments and businesses must invest in sustainable and resilient tourism practices. Private actors must adopt zero-emission pathways, lower their energy consumption and leverage renewable forms of energy. And everyone must protect the biodiversity and ecological balance of all destinations.

“Targeted investments can deliver jobs and support local businesses and industries while mitigating the environmental impacts of tourism, empowering communities, promoting their cultures, and contributing to essential social protection systems. So let us all do more to harness the full potential of sustainable tourism. Because investing in sustainable tourism is investing in a better future for all.”

While commending the Akwa Ibom Government for its ARISE Agenda’s focus on agriculture, Onung pledged the support of FTAN members towards ‘advancing sustainable tourism practices.’

Akwa Ibom State Council of Arts and Culture troupe performing during the World Tourism Day 2023 celebration at the Silverbird Gallery, Tropicana Hall, Uyo, Wednesday

“In the case of our host state, Akwa Ibom, our people are blessed to have a Governor in the person of Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, who has dwelt on Agriculture as the cornerstone of his administration, as encapsulated in the A.R.I.S.E agenda. He recently returned from a trip to the Songhai Farm in the Republic of Benin, to see for himself ways to engage in sustainable agriculture in harmony.

“As the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), we reaffirm our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism practices.

“We are dedicated to promoting responsible tourism that respects our environment, cultural heritage, and local communities. Through collaboration and partnerships, we can leverage green investments to drive economic growth while minimizing our ecological footprint,” he added.

Activities lined up to celebrate the WTD are expected to conclude, Friday, with a full day tour of Akwa Ibom State.

WTD 2023: FG to fully market Nigeria’s tourism products

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FTAN’s First Deputy President, Alhaji Madaki Aliyu, representing President Mr Nkereuwem Onung at the WTD 2023 celebration in Abuja, Wednesday

Minister of Tourism, Ms Lola Ade-John has assured that the Federal Government will move to create, promote Nigeria’s tourism products in the Diaspora and at home.

FTAN’s First Deputy President, Alhaji Madaki Aliyu, representing President Mr Nkereuwem Onung at the WTD 2023 celebration in Abuja, Wednesday

Speaking in Abuja, Wednesday, on the occasion of the commemoration of the World Tourism Day (WTD) with the theme; ‘Tourism and Green Investment, the Minister stated that the country’s tourism products ‘are vast, plentiful and core to revenue generation for the country.’

The minister who was represented at the event by the Director-General National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, Sani Kangiwa, further stated that ‘there is opportunity to reflect on ways to enhance the contribution of tourism in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015.’

According to the Minister, ‘taking tourism to the community level, showcasing the hidden gems of the villages in all regions of our picturesque and diverse country, is the essence of creating sustainable tourism in Nigeria.’

Ms Ade-John identified the keypoints for growth and development of tourism in Nigeria as; community Empowerment, collaboration and partnerships, sustainable Tourism Development, Investment in Renewable Energy and Digital transformation.

According to her, all of these have a combined a transformative power with ‘immense potential for our nation.’

Permanent Secretary, old Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mrs Ngozi Onwudiwe, presenting the address by the UNWTO Secretary General Mr Zurab Pololikashvili at the WTD 2023 celebration in Abuja, Wednesday

While reiterating that tourism products require adequate publicity development, maintenance and promotion, the minister remarked that there are numerous challenges that plagued the industry, just as she assured that ‘the government will gradually, speedily and successfully overcome these challenges with guidance, support and collaboration of all stakeholders.’

In his message on the commemoration of the WTD 2023, Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, Mr Zurab Pololikashvili, noted that tourism is a pillar of our economies, as it plays a central role in our societies and in our individual lives.

According to the UN Secretary, tourism offers solutions to some of our biggest challenges including the climate emergency and the urgent need to shift to more sustainable economies.

The UWTO secretary general, in his address read by Permanent Secretary at the old Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Dr Ngozi Onwudiwe, further stated that the power of tourism is enormous.

He remarked that tourism will be made easier for investors of all kinds to support tourism projects with potential to make a difference.

Traditional dancers performing at the WTD 2023 celebration in Abuja, Wednesday

In his address, President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Mr Nkereuwem Onung, represented by the First Deputy President, Alhaji Badaki Aliyu, expressed the hope that this  year’s celebration will provide an opportunity for governments, businesses, and individuals to come together and discuss sustainable tourism strategies.

This is also as he congratulated the Tourism minister, Ms Ade-John for organising the event, as he assured the support of the private sector in the her task of ‘-branding, re-structuring and re-organization of the tourism industry in Nigeria.’

“It will help highlight the importance of investing in sustainable tourism projects, such as eco-lodges, carbon-neutral hotels, and sustainable transportation.

“On this special day, let us celebrate the wonders of our world, appreciate the diversity of cultures, and recognize the importance of sustainable practices in tourism. Together, we can create a harmonious balance between exploration and preservation, leaving a legacy for future generations to enjoy.

“Let me use this opportunity to congratulate our Honourable Minister, Mrs. Lola Ade John for putting up this event and to equally assure you that the private sector tourism business owners are solidly behind you as you start the re-branding, re-structuring and re-organization of the tourism industry in Nigeria. “We do believe that you have all it takes to move this sector to an enviable height through public private partnership,” Onung said.

FTAN President, Onung declares Akwa Ibom ‘new spirit of tourism in Nigeria’

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NATOP delegation with FTAN President, Onung at the pre-WTD cocktail/dinner hosted by Ibom Air

President of the Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN), Mr Nkereuwem Onung, has declared Akwa Ibom as the ‘New Spirit of Tourism in Nigeria.’

FTAN leaders with President Onung

Speaking during a pre-World Tourism Day (WTD) cocktail/dinner hosted by the management of Ibom Air at the Monty Suites for FTAN delegation to the celebrations being hosted this year by the Government of Akwa Ibom, Tuesday night, Mr Onung introduced the state as the new spirit of tourism in Nigeria going by the ‘giant strides the people and leaders are making to position it as the ultimate destination for tourists.’

Onung who also doubles as the Special Adviser to Governor Umo Eno on Tourism further urged the delegation to trend the news by creating a hashtag for it on their various social media handles.

NATOP delegation with FTAN President, Onung

The brief ceremony had the Group Manager, Marketing & Communications (GMMC), Ibom Air, Ms Annie Essienette, who apologised to the delegation for the hitches encountered in flight arrangements to Uyo, the state capital for the WTD celebrations, also assured of the company’s readiness to ensure a comfortable stay and return trip back home.

The airline’s GMMC also supervised the distribution of gift items to members of the delegation as part of the fun event, which was done alongside the president of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Mrs Ime Udo.

Ibom Air staff at the reception for FTAN delegation in Akwa Ibom World Tourism Day celebration

The pre-WTD dinner also had in attendance a representative of the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Tourism, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, as well as NATOP and FTAN coordinators in the state.

Hannatu’s Creative Ideas: QED?

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Minister of Culture, Arts and Creative Economy, Ms Hannatu Musawa

[By FRANK MEKE)

Hannatu Musa Musawa, Nigeria’s Minister of Culture, Arts and Creative Economy, is certainly a beautiful woman. However, there may be some people who disagree, but it’s a proven fact that the lady is so beautiful to add spice to any discussion on the culture of beauty, African beauty.

Minister of Culture, Arts and Creative Economy, Ms Hannatu Musawa

Madam Minister’s beauty could be described as a mathematical theorem, which sums 2+ 2 as 4. Q.E.D., latin, translated as that ‘which was to be demonstrated or shown.’

Though in Nigeria, same mathematical expression could amount to some strange conclusions, like 2+2 as 6, Quod erat faciendum (Q.E.F) in Latin, meaning which was to be done and was  not proved of theorems.

I do not intend to confuse you, my good readers, on the exigencies of QED OR QEF, but to help us interrogate the eight point-agenda of Hannatu Musa Musawa on Culture and the creative sector.

This is the fourth week in office, admittedly fractured and distracted by her NYSC saga. Such indeed happens to beautiful people, yes, those specially made by God, cerebral and gutful. That’s the immorality of politics. There are no-go areas in Nigerian politics, some so mundane as to knock down anyone on any issue, immoral or moral.

Sometimes, I wonder at those who close their eyes to many embellished certifications provided by many politicians while at the same time being at the behest of the theorems of pulling others down.

Anyway, I believe Hannatu Musa Musawa case is simplistic and distractive even though it needs to be demonstrated.

Let me at this point demonstrate that her eight-point action plans for the culture sector should by now be given wings. In the hit of that bullish introspection on her NYSC issue, Hannatu Musa Musawa held herself high,  came up with her ideas , and later smoldered the tempo.

She has her office cut out for her and in shooting range position to quickly process the keys on Culture deliveries, QED?  Hannatu took a deliberate appearance in front of the cameras and gave a face and voice to her culture development nuggets, and gave some of us something to think about and admire, qoud erat faciendum (QEF)!

Three weeks later, her voice still rings bell in my ears, and I am beginning to drape from excitement to anxiety. Is it too early to launch out, fish, and feed the hungry Nigerian cultural tourism community?  I can still hear that sweet voice, bold and beautiful, even though many people said her idea is not born of collaborative effort.

She had said, “I believe a strong creative and cultural economy is a key driver to growth and presents an opportunity to accelerate Nigeria’s development on a local and international stage. To this end, (we) (her team) have created a comprehensive eight point plan that will deliver our collective vision to this sector.”

I will try and again sum those theorems of ideas, no doubt some of us and actually peculiar to us as a people, do quickly throw overboard ideas which does not demonstrate immediate pecuniary gains.

Leading the eight-game plan is Destination 2030, a focal intent citizen mobilization initiative to grow the arts, culture, and creative economy under one vision.

Others are skills acquisition and upscaling ecosystems for the young persons and players, fast tracking the improvement, creation, and implementation of policy frameworks that could stimulate feverish increase in revenue growth, job creation, and sustainable growth across the entire sector.

Tailing is collaboration with the private sector and innovative partnership, getting Nigeria arts and crafts as top 20 GDP flyers, to thrive the sector on tech growth environment, and the preservations of Nigeria cultural tourism Heritage.

Beautiful ideas, no doubt, Hannatu indeed wish to share as “a collective vision,” and I believe it’s not the end in itself.  Yes, culture is an economy of ideas, but throwing up ideas and going to bed are simplistic and confounding.

Leadership is about deliveries, not mere recitation of words. There are no make-believe movies in leadership expectations.  Hannatu is yet to demonstrate passion and desire to change the industry narratives. In other words, it’s not QED.  The mere shove on the public space of the eight points agenda,  as good as it sounds,  can only gain traction with  verifiable deliveries.

And she is lucky? I mean, with some of the best brains and human resource managers at most the agencies, like NCAC, NICO, and NTN under her watch, Hannatu should have polled significant gains from harnessing the fruits beneficial to putting food on the table of industry players, and indeed creating more jobs.

Yes, she is debriefing agencies under her watch. But, this however should be followed up with physical and unannounced visits to these parastatals. National Gallery of Arts, National Museum and Monuments, and Centre for Black and African civilization are cesspool of shame and disgrace.  National Film and Censors Board, oh dear, what a place, what a piggery!

The business of culture, arts, and crafts is on the field, and to put to test her policy frameworks, the open field of play rightly deserves her attention and presence.

I honestly find it disturbing and distasteful the status and physical state of our national museums.  These bowels of our history, tradition, arts, and crafts are a sad story of utter and deliberate neglect by its handlers.  Our museums will make Hannatu weep, and she can only come to terms with stark realities of our poor preservation ecosystem if she hurries out of office and catch the lazy minders sleeping away on their rat infested tables.

I visited one in Aba, not too recently, and cried for our country.  At least, you can buy roasted corn, plantain, eat Isi Ewu, and make photocopies of forged certificates at the place and not bother getting to learn about the history and essentially craft economy of the ancient Igbo people.

A colleague recently went to Calabar and came out puffing dust on the Shame of what had become of the museum in Calabar. Certainly, whatever policy ideas the minister may propose will have to be guided by the reality of preservation drawbacks on the ground.

It will amount to grandeur, a side stepping show, and smoldering entertainment to roll out policies, which will not advantage our disadvantages in the sector.

I want to see Hannatu run, initiate quick win deliveries, encourage agencies leaving up their billings, and reprimand those drinking tea of failure. The president has been up and doing, showing the way. Some ministers had left the comfort of their office and are on the field gathering Intel and asking questions. It would soon be dawn to evaluate the dream agendas and benefits of whatever she has in mind, and may it not earn a sack. When you have plenty of enemies following your bumper to bumper and praying for your failings, you must cleverly side step their landmines and cost to victory, leaving a legacy.

There’s no excuse for failure, and as it often said,  to whom much is given, much is expected.  Hannatu, please run with one of your main points of action and see others fall into place.  I will repeat it again, go to your DGs, NCAC, NICO, and NTN. These guys won’t deceive you because they are high flyers.

When next we meet here, it must be a successful story, testimony, and verifiable deliveries.  That is leadership. QED.  Abi, my readers, how una see am? Bye!

Author, Frank Meke

Akwa Ibom Govt firms ARISE Agenda with WTD hosting for industry operators

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Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State

Akwa Ibom Government in line with its ARISE Agenda geared towards lifting the tourism sector of its economy, has concluded arrangements to play host to the 2023 edition of the World Tourism Day (WTD) celebration in the state.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State

The Akwa Ibom’s ARISE Agenda, evolved by State Governor, Umo Eno aims at repositioning the state’s tourism sector by revitalising the infrastructural base and redesigning its destination marketing tools to achieve improved results of improving contribution of the sector to the economy.

The WTD 2023 celebration will be organised in collaboration with the Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN), which is the umbrella body of private sector operators in the industry.

The WTD 2023 will be held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom state capital city.

The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Tourism & Green Investment’.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has identified investments as one of the key priorities for tourism’s recovery and future growth and development. 

The World Tourism Day WTD 2023 is expected to gather tourism practitioners from across Nigeria, heads of Federal  and State agencies in the sector and key stakeholders, including practitioners who are expected to converge on the state from the 26th to 28th September 26 through to 28, to mark the global event.

Akwa Ibom Government has already unveiled activities lined up for the three-day event to include a Tourism Conference & Award Nite for Sept 27, as well as visits to ‘State Tourism Assets.’

Ahead of the event, the UNWTO highlights the need for more and better-targeted investments for people, for planet and for prosperity. It will be a call to action to the international community, governments, multilateral financial institutions, development partners and private sector investors to unite around a new tourism investment strategy.

According to FTAN President, while commenting on the programme, all executive committee members of the various affiliated operators’ groups in the state are expected to attend the events.

“Owners and operators of Hospitality, Catering and Leisure facilities should prepare adequately to host to the teeming guests that are coming in,” Mr Onung, who also ‘doubles as the Senior Special Adviser to the Akwa Ibom Governor on Tourism, said in a statement.

WTD 2023: Edo Govt to rally stakeholders on heritage promotion, protection policy

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Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki

Edo Government has disclosed of plans to rally industry stakeholders in the state’s tourism sector with a view to getting their inputs on the recently-drafted State Heritage Promotion and Protection Policy, as part of activities lined up to mark the 2023 edition of the World Tourism Day (WTD).

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki

The Edo State Heritage Promotion and Protection Policy is a document designed to set guidelines and implementation strategies for the conservation and promotion of the state’s tangible and intangible heritage materials, in line with efforts to make it a tourist destination of choice.

A statement issued by the State Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Tourism, Uyi Oduwa Malaka, disclosed this while unveiling arrangements by the State to join the world in the celebration of this year’s World Tourism Day (WTD), on September 27.

“The World Tourism Day is a day set aside by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) to foster awareness of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, and economic values to mankind.

‘‘The theme for this year’s celebration is “Tourism and Green Investment,” which emphasises the vital need for investment in building a tourism sector that delivers for people and the planet.

“Tourism is a positive force of nature that helps to connect our heritage, historicity and our present. It connects culture civilizations and melts humanity into a common narrative of origins and experiences,” Mrs Malaka said.

The commissioner further stated that activities to mark the occasion would hold at the Ogba Zoological Garden on Wednesday September 27, with the major focus on unveiling the State’s Heritage Promotion and Protection Policy.

“it will feature stakeholders input in the recently drafted Edo State Heritage Promotion and Protection Policy, guided tours, workshops and it will highlight some of the milestones recorded by the state government in the tourism space.

“This policy places robust emphasis on preservation, conservation and maintenance of our heritage sites and intangible heritage that is consistent with this year’s theme of green investment,” she added.

Malaka further encouraged participants and stakeholders in the sector to suggest ideas that will promote sustainable tourism practices through environmentally friendly initiatives.

Webisco to organise dialogue for tourism operators to chart way forward

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Chief (Mrs.) Margaret Bolanle Fabiyi

President of the Webisco Women in Agro-tourism, Environ Dome Houses and Farms, Chief (Mrs.) Margaret Bolanle Fabiyi (Webisco) has concluded plans to organise a one-day tourism dialogue under the theme: ‘Nigerian Tourism: Past, Present, and Future,’ on October 26, this year in Lagos.

Chief (Mrs.) Margaret Bolanle Fabiyi

According to Chief Fabiyi, the planned will be chaired by the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) Board of Trustees chairman, Chief Samuel Alabi.

The one-day programme involving the public and private sectors industry practitioners will discuss and chart the way forward for the tourism industry in Nigeria in the light of the newly-created stand-alone ministry.

Fabiyi who explained that the current efforts by Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu in creating a stand-alone tourism ministry was a step in the right direction, even as she, however, noted that the only way to create a clear path towards development and growth of the sector was for the industry practitioners to ‘come, discuss and take a holistic look at the sector.’

“For many decades we have been part of the efforts and struggle to grow the industry. We are happy that the industry has its ministry. However, we need to take a holistic look at the sector from the past till present. It is important we understand the area we, as practitioners and industry players, had got it wrong, the ones we did well, and the best way to grow the industry in the present age.

“Tourism has undergone so many changes and transformation in the last ten years, especially post COVID-19. There are changes in destination marketing and development. These are some of the issues we intend to discuss and come out with positive ideas to move the industry forward”.

Continuing, Mrs Fabiyi said: “For many decades we have been path of the efforts and struggle to grow the industry. We are happy that the industry has its ministry. However, we need to take a holistic look at the sector from the past till present. It is important we understand the area we, as practitioners and industry players, had got it wrong, the ones we did well, and the best way to grow the industry in the present age.

“Tourism has undergone so many changes and transformation in the last ten years, especially post COVID-19. There are changes in destination marketing and development. These are some of the issues we intend to discuss and come out with positive ideas to move the industry forward.”

According to her, the conference will also serve as an opportunity to reintroduce her pet project; the Black History Month (BHM).

“The dialogue would be an opportunity to reintroduce my organization’s pet project, the Black History Month (BHM). We plan holding it in February 2024. We have been started plans for the BHM.”

FG commits to partnering FTAN, others towards ‘making Nigeria tourism work’

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FTAN President, Mr Nkereuwem Onung with the Minister of Tourism, Ms Lola Ade-John, Thursday, in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the private sector tourism operators’ group

Federal Government has committed to enabling private enterprise participation in growing the tourism sector of the country, just as it also commended the efforts made by the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) towards that field of the country’s economy.

Minister of Tourism, Ms. Lola Ade-John in a group photograph with members of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) led by President, Mr Nkereuwem Onung, who paid a courtesy visit to her office in Abuja, Thursday

FTAN is the umbrella body of private sector operators in the tourism industry of Nigeria.

Minister of the newly established Ministry of Tourism, Ms Lola Ade-John, disclosed this when she met with a delegation of FTAN top executives led by its President, Mr Nkereuwem Onung, accompanied by the Directors General of the two agencies in the ministry; the National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Alhaji Nura Kangiwa, as well as, his counterpart at the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Mr Folarin Coker.

The minister used the meeting to restate her task of making the tourism industry viable and attractive to private investors, which she said tops the list of focus she has been tasked with by President Bola Tinubu.

According to the minister, ‘tourism is set to take the number one space in revenue generation in the country,’ which she stressed can only be achieved through effective collaborations and result-oriented partnerships with private sector business and think-tank groups like FTAN.

Ms Lola Ade-John, Minister of Tourism addressing FTAN delegation to her office in Abuja, Thursday

Earlier, while proposing key areas of focus for the minister, FTAN President, Mr Onung disclosed that suggestions presented to the Federal Government through her, for consideration are intended to assist the Tourism ministry in achieving its objective of repositioning the Nigerian tourism industry for growth and development, as a great contributor to the national economy.

FTAN in its suggestions urged the Federal Government to revisit stalled programmes initiated in the sector, including the National Tourism Masterplan; hosting of the National Council on Tourism, state’s tourism masterplan, as well as, the Tourism Satellite Account (TSA), all of which had been abandoned by previous administrations for non-justifiable reasons despite the huge potential they portend for growing the sector of the economy.

It would be recalled that since the conclusion of the 61st Meeting United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Commission for Africa (CAF) and Technical Seminar for Tourism Statistics hosted by Nigeria in Abuja, in June 2018, which recommended and harped on a TSA for African countries, the far-reaching resolutions of that gathering have remained in the dustbin of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (or Culture, Information and National Orientation).

Incidentally, that novel meeting was hosted by immediate past minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed. However, nearly five years after, nothing in that direction has been done by way of implementation of its decisions.

It is against this backdrop that FTAN reminded the new minister of the need to reactivate the project as a way of lifting and pointing out a new direction for the industry operators, in particular, and the country’s economy in general.

According to FTAN, Federal Government has ‘to create awareness and understanding of the implementation of Tourism Satellite Accounts (TSA) which is very important in tracking and keeping records of the National tourism growth and development indices, statistically.’

Onung further revisited the controversial National Tourism Masterplan, which since its official launch in 2006 under the tenure of Mr Adetokunbo Kayode, in Abuja, has come under heavy criticism for being too alien, and copied from the UNWTO without adaptation to the Nigerian peculiar environment.

Subsequent tenures of ministers like Chief Edem Duke had attempted to ‘domesticate’ it by including the concept of ‘tourism clusters,’ an attempt which was also rebuffed by operators, until its present state of abandonment by various states and private operators.

FTAN seeks the Federal Government attention to revisit the masterplan. This in addition to the idea of allowing individual states of the federation to draw up their own tourism masterplans, which FTAN posits ‘will equally serve as a roadmap and guide in the implementation of their tourism development programs and activities.’

According to Onung, government needs to revisit the National Tourism Masterplan, as, according to him, ‘Nigeria cannot talk about developing the tourism industry without a roadmap to guide it to do so most effectively and efficiently which is the objective of the National Tourism Development Plan as a vital document.’

FTAN also sought the reactivation of the mandatory but now abandoned Federal Government’s hosting of the National Council on Tourism, which was a platform ‘where important national policies and programs on tourism industry are discussed, far reaching decisions are taken, giving guide and direction to national tourism activities for sustainability and enhancement.’

This is further as the group backed the formation of Commissioners of Tourism Forum, which it said ‘will bring all commissioners of tourism across the country together and afford them to discuss tourism development issues in their domains as well as offer the opportunity for synergy in national tourism development matters.’

FTAN President, Mr Nkereuwem Onung with the Minister of Tourism, Ms Lola Ade-John, Thursday, in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the private sector tourism operators’ group

The tourism operators’ group, in addition to its proposals before the minister, urged the Federal Government to come up with a calendar of events which will include all key tourism and hospitality events across the country annually.

“Besides giving national tourism events a line of focus and direction in preparedness, it will guide tourists to prepare their schedules to attend tourism and hospitality events in the country by both local and international visitors,” the FTAN president told the minister.

The business group also advocated the revival of the long rested Presidential Council of Tourism, which it said was a platform brings together key stakeholders from the public sector comprising lines Ministries, Departments and Agencies at all levels of government as well as the organized private sector in the tourism industry with His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief as Chairman of the council.

Continuing, Onung recalled the ‘the thorny issue of Grading and Classification of Tourism and Hospitality establishments’ which he said needs to be in place to guide ‘standard operation patterns for tourism and hospitality establishments in the country in line with global best practices.”

FTAN also made a case before the minister to be carried along in programs, events and projects of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) on tourism development matters and initiatives.

“We need to be informed, keep pace, and be carried along in international tourism development issues. “This should be in collaboration with the organized private sectors for credibility and legitimacy.

“For instance, the UNWTO strategy on innovation and Education, Digital Transformation and Investments, and others, the group told the minister, as it further included the attendance of International Tourism and Hospitality Events.

“For instance, the World Tourism Market (WTM), FITUR, INDABA, and others,” adding that; ‘the Federal Government should organize and lead the country’s delegation and attendance of such events.’

In conclusion, FTAN advised the Federal Government ‘to key into the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Agenda on Tourism of the United Nations and devise means to implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs, and promotes local culture and products.’

FTAN President, Mr Nkereuwem Onung presenting a souvenir to Minister of Tourism, Ms Lola Ade-John, Thursday

While commending President Bola Tinubu for ‘creating a separate Ministry for Tourism, which it said heeded ‘the cry of the industry,’ FTAN also hailed Ms Ade-John’s ‘worthiest appointment,’ describing it as ‘a good omen and literally the best thing that has happened to the industry in recent years given your pedigree and unalloyed commitment and dedication to the service of the country.’

The FTAN President, therefore, expressed the trust that Ms Ade-John’s emergence ‘will bring to bear in positioning Nigeria as a country that should enormously rely on the Tourism Industry because of the immense economic values it has to offer.’

Responding, in her brief remarks, Ade-John reechoed President Tinubu’s charge to all the ministerial appointees to revitalize their sectors, even as she thanked the FTAN delegation for the courtesy visit to her office ‘despite the tight space in the meeting room.’

The minister assured FTAN of her commitment to ‘push in ways and modalities to make tourism in Nigeria work,’ with the cooperation of the private sector enterprise stakeholders like the group.

On the abandoned TSA, the minister explained that since she is coming from a background of technology and data, she ‘will ensure the TSA works.’

“Presently, I am working closely with all the ministers to ensure that the mandate to which they were appointed by President Bola Tinubu were achieved and do all within their power to ensure they succeeded,” Ms Ade-John said.

On the issue of carrying FTAN along in government attendance at international events, the minister assured that she is working closely with all the parastatals and the ministry to attend those events in order ‘to tell the world that Tourism in Nigeria is back.’

On partnership with private sector operators in the industry, the minister assured of her readiness to ‘gladly talk to FTAN anytime’ and FTAN should feel free to come to the office to see her anytime.

Members of the FTAN delegation in the courtesy visit to the Tourism minister’s office included the executive committee officers, and some presidents of affiliate associations.

Plateau initiates revival of tourism industry with 2023 Jos Christmas Festival

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victor
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Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State

[By EKENE OKAFOR, Lagos]

Plateau Government has set in motion initiatives geared towards reviving the once vibrant tourism sector of the state as it announces the inaugural Jos Christmas Festival billed to hold all through December 2023.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State

Plateau tourism which was enervated by years of terrorism further worsened by violent communal clashes and religious tension has seen a remarkable easing of the socio-economic climate since the inauguration of the Executive Governor, Mr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang on May 29, this year.

Since his inauguration, Governor Mutfwang has made his intentions clear about the revival and reinvigoration of the tourism industry, a move which has also seen relevant agencies come back to life, in addition to the establishment of new ones in the state for the purpose.

As well as reliving the glorious memories of Plateau tourism, which the industry set the state apart from others, the government is also intent on exploring new opportunities for job and wealth creation for its citizens dislodged by years of civil unrest.

To this end, General Manager of one of the revived and revitalized agencies of government, the Plateau State Tourism Corporation, Mr. Chuwang Pwajok disclosed that his agency is presently putting finishing touches to an event  billed for this year, and tagged; the Jos Christmas Festival, which he also disclosed is the first of its kind in the state.

Mr Chuwang Pwajok, GM, Plateau State Tourism Corporation

“The festival is expected to take place throughout the month of December to the 1st of January 2024.

“The corporation believes that it is not just enough to have some form of build-up attraction or natural attraction that is there for people to enjoy but to build and develop activities around these attractions that will warrant tourists coming to spend their funds within these locations.

“We are already expanding collaborations and partnerships for those who are organizing different events. We want to bring the city and Plateau to a specific destination location throughout the December period,” Mr. Pwajok disclosed in an interview.

According to the Plateau State Tourism Corporation boss, fun-seekers should watch out for fully decorated trees with Christmas lights and shopping arrangements.

“It’s like a carnival kind of thing; musical concerts, stage drama performances, children fun fair, little Miss Tourism beauty pageant, and all of that.

“We are also planning to announce the re-emergence of Plateau State and Jos in particular as a destination to spend your holiday in. It’s already hitting the right notes on social media, and we believe that we are fully on track towards delivering the first JOS Christmas festival,” said Pwajok.

Speaking on the expected number of visitors coming into Plateau for tourism, Pwajok said the figures ‘are gradually picking up after the state battled serious crisis and security challenges in the past.’

“I think we are already mindful of the fact that we need to buckle up. We are not making the kind of numbers that we hope to make, so we are really putting on a lot to begin to hit the right numbers as far as tourism visitor numbers are concerned.

“Plateau state, like you all know, has been recognized as a major tourist haven as far as Nigeria is concerned. But, at the moment, we would admit that it has not been rosy for quite some time now.”

The General Manager added that the state’s tourism sector is undergoing an overhaul in terms of strategy and policy.

“Plateau tourism sector right now is at a stage where their blueprints are being fine-tuned, processes are being redesigned and then strategically positioning the state to re-emerge, internationally as a destination to reckon with as far as tourism is concerned.

“Plateau state once known as the home of peace and tourism is blessed with numerous tourism sites such as the eco tourism, wildlife parks, waterfalls, gigantic rocks, amazing weather etc but have over the years faced with security challenges that have affected human and material growth including its tourism industry,” Pwajok enthused.

FTAN President, Onung hails impact of Gov. Eno’s 100 days in office

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victor
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Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State

President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Mr Nkereuwen Onung has described the 100 days in office of the Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, as impactful and re-energising.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State

Celebrating Governor Eno for reawakening the business environment in the state, as well as, providing succor to citizens and residents alike of Akwa Ibom, Mr Onung who also doubles as the Senior Special Adviser on Culture and Tourism to the state’s chief executive, described his principal as already giving significance to the term; ‘hitting the ground running,’ by virtue of his achievements within a relatively short period of time.

Mr. Onung, in a statement released, Tuesday, stated that Governor Eno being one of the 25 elected state chief executives during the 2023 General Elections, appears to have already spent 100 months or even years in office, when he is only marking his 100th day.

“Clearly laying down the marker in destination marketing, business management and promotion, Governor Eno within hours of inauguration as chief executive announced his intentions to the country and the world by going beyond the typical rhetoric and laying out a grand plan for transformation of the state’s economy anchored on tourism via his novel ARISE Agenda.

“With the ARISE agenda, Akwa Ibom State is poised to become a premier tourism destination, offering breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences.

“Going a step further, the Akwa Ibom Dialogue recently hosted by his government is also geared towards actualizing the goals of the project as the event gathered the best technocrats from virtually all sectors to chart a way forward for the ARISE agenda,” Onung posited.

Onung further hailed Governor Eno for the novel bill recently forwarded to the State House of Assembly, the fourth in the series,  which seeks to establish the ‘Akwa Ibom State Bureau of Statistics and Akwa Ibom State Statistical System and for other Matters Connected therewith.’

According to the FTAN President, such documents only go further to confirm his intentions for he economy by way of driving the ease of doing business policy of the state’s chief executive, which ultimately is aimed at repositioning it as a one-stop shop society for enterprise.

As the Akwa Ibom governor marks his 100 days in office, Onung expressed the hope that the quest to reposition the state’s economy and raise the bar in standard business practice is sustained.

While soliciting the support of the Governor Eno in creating opportunities for tourism operators to plug into the ARISE Agenda, Onung also assured of their readiness to assist the governors as partners in business progress of the state.

Mr Nkereuwem Onung, FTAN President, Senior Special Adviser on Culture & Tourism to Akwa Ibom State Governor, Eno

Onung further singled out such commendable initiatives of Governor Eno apart from the ARISE agenda to include, the innovative AkwaGIS, which is designed to help both individuals and companies in land acquisition and management, but more importantly, and drive the Ease of Doing Business policy.

 “This is in addition to the fact that the Akwa Ibom State Government, under Eno has decided to participate in the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) which is jointly implemented by the Federal Ministry of Finance, budget and National Planning, the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council, Debt Management Office and the Nigeria Governors’ forum, financed by the World Bank,” Onung said.

While wishing Governor Eno a successful tenure in office, Onung also enjoined citizens and residents alike to support the chief executive as he continues to chart a new course in business and natural resources management of Akwa Ibom State.

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