Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu state has described tourism as more than just economic driver but a bridge that connects cultures, foster understanding and promotes sustainable development.
Mbah who spoke through his Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke while declaring open a 2-day workshop on domestic tourism in Enugu on Sunday, stated that Enugu is the place where to start when thinking of tourism in Nigeria.
“As we acknowledge today all the tourist sites that I have mentioned that we have in Enugu, I want to plead with everybody here, when you think of tourism, when you think of domestic tourism, always bear in mind that charity begins at home and Enugu is the place to start. And indeed, Our Tomorrow is here”, she added.
The governor’s representative also commended the organisers for deeming it fit to honour those individuals who have dedicated their efforts in advancement of tourism and hospitality in the region.
“Jands has long been a beacon of excellence in tourism and hospitality sector. Not only for its commitment to quality services but also for recognising those whose hard work and innovation drive this vital industry forward”, she said.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Coordinator of the Workshop and Director, Jands Travel Business School, Enugu, Mrs. Chioma Obi, explained that the workshop was born out of the need to unlock the immense potential of domestic tourism in Nigeria.
“With our rich cultural heritage, diverse natural landscapes, and resilient people, the time has come to build a more robust and sustainable tourism ecosystem”, Mrs Obi said. She stated that the focus of the gathering was to foster collaboration between the private sector and the government while inspiring innovation and entrepreneurship within the country.
On vision tor the future, the Jands boss noted, “In five years, we see a Nigeria where domestic tourism is thriving economic sector, creating jobs, promoting cultural preservation, and driving local development. Through initiatives like this workshop, we are laying the groundwork for a future where our local destinations are celebrated and recognized globally.”
Obi also used the opportunity to introduce EnuguXplore, a platform, she explained “.is dedicated to showcasing Enugu State’s rich tourism potential.”
“The objective is to bridge the gap between local attractions and tourists, providing a seamless experience that promotes our culture, cuisines, natural beauty, and history, like what you experienced at the Tribe by Veronica at the arrival welcome ceremony yesterday forms the bedrock of collaborations that drive meaningful progress.”
For the 2024 Jands Visionary Awards, Obi explained, “It is part of the Workshop to recognize and celebrate excellence in travel, tourism, hospitality, arts, culture, entrepreneurship, and humanity.”
Obi also spoke on a topic titled: “The Role of Tourism Education in Advancing Domestic Tourism: Unlocking Opportunities through Knowledge, Networking, and Personal Development”.
All the speakers including the President of NANTA, Olayinka Folami, shared their tourism experiences and services concluding that there is need for collaborations between the private sector and the government.
Folami said that the workshop is apt and timely, reiterating that the theme of the workshop is, “Exploring A Synergy To Boost Business & Entrepreneurship. The President of NANTA said that the outcome of the Workshop would help to explore ways to grow business through tourism in the country.
.
“The workshop had robust deliberations that will stimulate the hospitality and tourism sectors in the country”, he added. Among the speakers were: Ayodeji Awomoyi, Chief Ben Etiaba, and Barrister Pat Igwebuike.
The event featured awards of excellence on the Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah, and the Commissioner of Culture and Tourism, Dame Madueke. Also, there was a session of panelists where questions were asked by participants and responded to accordingly.
