ABUJA, Nigeria — Domestic tourism has the potential to transform Nigeria’s local economies, strengthen cultural identity, and support environmental sustainability, says Dr Obinna Alexander Onyeocha, Convener of the National Conference for Domestic and Ecotourism Exhibition.
Speaking during the fourth edition of the conference held in Abuja, Onyeocha stressed that sustainable tourism is not just an economic lever but a tool for national cohesion and resilience.
The conference, themed “Sustainable Tourism Practices: Challenges and Opportunities for Domestic and Ecotourism Development,” drew participants from across Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
“Tourism is more than just travel,” Onyeocha told a hall packed with industry leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders. “It is a bridge between communities and a path towards preserving both heritage and the environment.”
He argued that Nigeria’s vast cultural festivals, diverse landscapes, and ecological treasures remain underutilised — and must be harnessed responsibly to support local artisans, ecologists, and cultural custodians.
“If we promote local destinations — from the Jos Plateau to Osun festivals — we empower communities while preserving our heritage,” he said.
Onyeocha highlighted the untapped potential across West Africa, referencing Niger’s domes and Benin’s royal palaces, while calling for eco-conscious travel and community-led initiatives.
He acknowledged critical challenges — such as inadequate infrastructure, poor policy implementation, and limited public awareness — but insisted these should be seen as opportunities to build something resilient and uniquely African.
“Our commitment to sustainability is not optional — it is essential,” he said. “We must train local professionals, raise standards, and market West Africa as a united, accessible eco-destination.”
The event also honoured the late “Mama Domestic Tourism,” the pioneer of the initiative, whose early vision helped shape the conference’s mission.
In a goodwill message, the Federal Ministry of Culture and Tourism — represented by Mr Sunday Bisom — reiterated the government’s commitment to tourism as a pillar of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Bisom outlined steps being taken to develop a tourism master plan, enhance infrastructure, and promote public-private partnerships that prioritise ecological integrity and community benefits.
“This theme is timely,” he said. “It challenges all of us — government, private sector, civil society, and academia — to work together towards a tourism industry that is inclusive, climate-conscious, and future-ready.”
As delegates engaged in exhibitions and discussions, the focus remained on actionable strategies to reimagine tourism — not as an elite luxury, but as a livelihood and legacy for ordinary Nigerians.
The 2025 conference continues to serve as a platform for shaping a tourism sector that is proudly African, locally owned, and globally relevant.
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