Minister highlights the potential for growth in Nigeria’s tourism and travel industry through the preservation of relics

The preservation of colonial and indigenous relics has been highlighted as a key strategy to boost tourism and travel in Nigeria. At the recent 10th Wonders of Nigeria Expo in Lagos, Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, expressed concern over the country’s failure to preserve its historical sites, which could attract tourists and boost the GDP.

Ade-John emphasized that Nigeria has natural tourist sites that could create employment opportunities for locals, unlike artificial tourist sites in other countries. She called for collaboration among tourism ambassadors and stakeholders to drive growth in the sector, despite security challenges.

The minister also urged state governments to develop their tourist sites, citing the example of Ekiti State, which has only promoted 5% of its Ikogosi Resort. Ade-John revealed plans by the Federal Government to set standards, partner with local and state governments, and attract foreign and local investors to the tourism sector.

Renowned photographer Dayo Adedayo raised concerns about the loss of N100 billion annually due to the restriction of tourists from viewing the Aso Rock site in Abuja. He called on the government to reconsider this decision and urged stakeholders to explore ways to increase tourism revenue in the country.

The expo’s convener, Ikechi Uko, stressed the importance of creating experts in the tourism sector and promoting tourist sites through storytelling and photography. The event aimed to raise awareness about the National Museum in Lagos and showcase the diverse attractions in the state.