The Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), has said that the current review of the National Tourism Policy was focused on promoting domestic tourism.
Ms Ngozi Ngoka, Thematic Lead, Tourism and Hospitality Industries Thematic Group, said the review was a deliberate move to ensure that tourism contributed to the Gross Domestic Product (GPD) of the nation’s economy as obtained in other countries.
Ngoka spoke on Saturday in Lagos during the tourism and hospitality stakeholders validation of the 2024 Draft of the tourism policy.
She, however, urged Nigerians to travel within the country for wealth creation.
She stated that the tourism policy, which was originally made in 1990, was first reviewed in 2005 to strategically sustain the sector.
“The tourism policy contains a lot. It’s the best thing that will happen to the tourism industry.
“This is because for the first time we are going to have a comprehensive document that streamlines the way tourism will work in the country and we have a very fantastic team working on it.
“We are excited that this is the first time it’s going to come to fruition.
“A big part of this tourism policy is to develop the domestic tourism because a lot of countries that have tourism as a major contributor to its GDP started by traveling domestically,” she said.
Ngoka used South Africa as a case study.
According to her, during apartheid, South Africa managed its domestic tourism, and by the time apartheid ended, tourism became a big market for them.
“We, therefore, encourage everybody to travel within Nigeria, to use our domestic products,” she advised.
Ngoka stated that many nations were able to revive their economy through tourism.
She said that tourism remained the bedrock for all economic activities.
Speaking further on the policy review, Ngoka said it was necessary to maintain the integrity and ability of the tourism policy and guide the industry toward global competitiveness, and sustainable growth.
She said the review involved updating the policy to reflect new legal and regulatory requirements.
She said it would also involve incorporating technological advancements and aligning with current best practices for operational excellence.
She also said that the review would specify how risks would be managed effectively and how to respond proactively to changes in market conditions and tourist preferences.
“In reviewing the national tourism policy, our vision is to transform Nigeria into a leading tourism destination in Africa and globally.
“Also to harness our cultural heritage, natural landscapes, creative and sports industries, and vibrant communities to attract tourists and investors.
“Our guiding principle is on sustainability, innovation, marketing and collaboration.
“We expect that at the end of the day, we will record increased tourist arrivals, create jobs, and improve global perception of Nigeria as a premiere tourist destination,” she said.
Ngoka said the policy review team were divided into seven groups.
The groups include: Infrastructure development; Marketing and promotion; Regulatory and institutional framework.
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Others are: Stakeholders engagement, Economic impact; Implementation plan and Sustainability and environmental considerations.
“We encourage all stakeholders, including government officials, private sectors and community representatives, to actively participate in the implementation process.
“By working together, we can create a sustainable, inclusive and competitive tourism sector that significantly contribute to Nigeria’s socio-economic development,” she said (NAN)
