As the World marks the 2024 World Tourism Day today, the Abia State chairman of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), Amb Onyekachi Atuloma-Loveday, has emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to propel Abia’s tourism industry forward.
The call to action aligns with the global theme, entitled, “Tourism and Peace,” highlighting tourism’s potential to foster understanding, unity, and economic growth.
In an interview with our Correspondent, Amb. Onyekachi Atulomah-Loveday, emphasized the vast potential of the tourism sector, citing it as one of the world’s fastest-growing industries, and stressed the importance of investing in it, to harness its economic benefits.
According to her, Nigeria’s tourism sector is projected to create 2.6 million new jobs and contribute ₦12.3 trillion to the economy by 2032, adding that the push for collaboration in the sector was timely, maintaining that effective partnerships, could unlock Abia’s rich cultural and natural heritage, enhancing visitors’ experiences and stimulating local economies.
In her Goodwill message, the ATPN boss reflected on the transformative power of tourism, emphasizing on its potential to foster peace, understanding, and economic growth in Abia State.
‘Tourism is a catalyst for cultural exchange, people-to-people diplomacy, and mutual understanding. It bridges gaps between nations, communities, and individuals, promoting tolerance,respect and peaceful coexistence.
“In Abia State, we have a rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural attractions and warm hospitality that needs to be explored”.
She stated that stakeholders can create a thriving tourism industry in Abia,by working together, promoting peace, prosperity, and cultural understanding, adding that tourism investment could create jobs and economic opportunities for Abia youth, showcase the unique cultural identity of Abia to the world and as well, foster community development and infrastructure growth.
Mrs Loveday, however, disclosed that tourism can enhance global reputation and attract foreign investment,promoting peace and understanding through cultural exchange.
She further hinted that Abia State has the potential to become a leading tourist destination in Nigeria, with historic sites,such as, the source of Imo River, waterfalls, mountains, hills, the Azumini blue River, Arochukwu Cave, Akwete weavers, among other sites, waiting for exploration.
The Abia ATPN chairman, also listed the rich cultural heritage of the state,which are displayed during festivals such as, the Ekete Nshi Bende, Iri ji Festival, Ekpe Cultural Festival, Ohafia War Dance,Ila Oso Uzuakoli, and other festivals within the state,can attract visitors from far and wide.
As the world marked the world Tourism Day, the Tourism Ambassador, equally called on the Abia state government to help harness tourism potentials in the state, by developing tourism infrastructure, such as hotels, roads, and amenities, providing training and capacity-building programs for tourism professionals, as well as,promoting public-private partnerships to drive investment.
She said the Abia government can also enhance security and safety measures for tourists, thereby, showcasing Abia State’s tourism offerings through effective marketing.
Meanwhile, Amb Onyekachi Atuloma-Loveday urged Abians to embrace tourism, as a tool for peace-building and economic growth, support local tourism initiatives and entrepreneurs, preserve the state’s cultural heritage and natural attractions and in addition, create a hospitable haven for visitors.
She further informed that the World Tourism Day would be celebrated officially by the ATPN, in collaboration with other tourism organizations in the state,come 4th of October, 2024, in Aba.
