By: Uju Nwanekezie-Egemole
Across the world, tourism has evolved to become one of the fastest growing industries. This growth has been driven by advanced technology in travels and an increased holiday culture.
But, Nigeria has maintained a dogmatic approach which narrowly defines tourism as arts and culture with poor emphasis on other aspects like nature and conservation and currently it contributes about 2% to Nigeria’s GDP compared to other African countries such as Seychelles, Cape Verde and Mauritius where the Tourism & Travels industry has been better harnessed, contributing 20%, 17% and 12% respectively to the GDP.
Chinyelugo, a resourceful Businessman knows that the tourism industry in Nigeria is a gold mine yet untapped, if revamped has the potential to attract substantial foreign exchange earnings.
At the same time, he is not unaware that the major challenges facing tourism development in Nigeria include: inadequate infrastructure (Poor road networks, unreliable transportation, inadequate sanitation facilities at tourist sites, and limited access to electricity), insecurity concerns (Frequent incidents of kidnapping, banditry, and communal clashes in certain regions create a perception of insecurity, discouraging tourists from visiting), widespread corruption (bribery and extortion practices by officials at tourist sites can deter visitors and discourage investment in the tourism sector), poor sanitation, lack of skilled workforce, poor marketing and promotion of tourist destinations (insufficient promotion of Nigeria’s diverse tourist attractions on a global scale, leading to low awareness among potential visitors), political instability (Frequent changes in government policies and political unrest can create uncertainty for tourism businesses and investors), and a lack of awareness about tourism potential within the local population; all of which deter potential tourists and hinder the industry’s growth.
To mitigate these challenges, Chinyelugo is coming prepared with effective tourism development bills
that will ensure job creation, strengthening of the local economy, contribute to local infrastructure development and can help to conserve the natural environment and cultural assets & traditions, and reduce poverty and inequality.
Zukky, the game changer, is a huge blessing to Ndị Anambra South.
Let’s support Sir Azuka Okwuosa for effective Representation in the Red Chambers of the National Assembly.
*SIR AZUKA OKWUOSA MEDIA*
