The Gambia High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mohamadou Musa Njie has said Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage, landscapes, and vibrant communities have great potential for job creation, wealth generation, and economic growth.
The Gambia’s envoy who disclosed this at the first ever Tourism Parliament with theme: “Tourism as a Catalyst for Job Creation and Economic Diversification,” held in Abuja on Thursday, stated the need to acknowledge transformative power of tourism and its potential to shape the economic destiny of the nations.
He said, “The critical question is how to effectively promote these attractions internally to the 250 million Nigerians, the world, and our fellow Africans, fostering shared prosperity that benefits everyone.
“We understand that the Nigerian tourism sector has its own challenges, similar to any other industry. However, developing strategic tourism policy with specific, sustainable programs at all levels is crucial.
“Prioritizing access to these assets, investing in tourism infrastructure are essential steps. With these components in place, tourism has the potential to become one of Nigeria’s most valuable assets, considering the nation’s abundant natural and cultural resources”, Njie said.
The Gambia’s envoy noted that the key lies in leveraging these natural assets to attract both local and international visitors while also supporting the communities where these assets are situated.
He added that this approach can create jobs, and economic opportunities at all levels. Involving local communities and private sector players across tourism value chain, from hospitality to cultural exhibitions, to ensure that the benefits of this sector are felt far and wide.
Njie pressed further that this inclusivity not only enhances the visitor experience but also strengthens very fabric of society, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among the people and the nation as a whole.
The Gambia High Commissioner acknowledged the invaluable role of the media in this journey. “The stories you tell, the images you share, and the narratives you build are instrumental in marketing Nigeria as a tourist destination”, he said.
Njie commended the organizers of this event for their visionary approach to bringing these discussions to the forefront. “Your initiative is a testament to the critical role that tourism can play in shaping our economies”.
The event developed by Travelogue Communication, aimed to create a platform for stakeholders and media professionals, also witnessed the unveiling of the Executive Tourism Mile, to promote Nigeria’s unique selling points to position the country as a world-class tourism destination.
