Lai Mohammed Warns That Negative Narratives Are Stifling Nigeria’s Tourism Growth

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Former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has raised concerns regarding the persistent negative portrayal of Nigeria by its citizens, asserting that such actions are a major bottleneck for the nation’s tourism aspirations.

Speaking on January 18 at the modernised Olumo Rock Tourist Complex in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Mohammed addressed a gathering themed, “Experiencing Olumo: Celebrating Heritage, Inspiring Tourism.” The event also served as a platform for the reading and signing of his new book, Headlines and Soundbites: Media Moments That Defined an Administration.

He expressed strong disapproval of the reckless denigration of the country, arguing that these narratives directly sabotage national interests in the cultural and tourism sectors.

“Those who constantly badmouth Nigeria are, wittingly or unwittingly, acting as enemies of our culture and tourism sector. You cannot consistently speak ill of your country and expect foreign tourists to see it as an attractive destination,” he said.

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Mohammed lauded the Ogun State Government for its visionary transformation of Olumo Rock, turning the historic landmark into a contemporary heritage site. He called on both state and federal authorities to prioritise tourism as a credible alternative to oil revenue, emphasising its potential for job creation and infrastructure development.

“What we need is for governments at all levels to provide stronger incentives to investors in tourism and the creative industries. That is a winning strategy for Nigeria,” he added.

Supporting his argument with data from UNESCO and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), Mohammed noted that the global tourism industry generates over $10 trillion, roughly 10% to 11% of global GDP.

“Together, tourism and culture support over 330 million jobs worldwide. Nigeria cannot afford to ignore this enormous opportunity,” he said.

The former Minister described his new book as an intimate look into the media strategies and cultural diplomacy employed during his 2015–2023 tenure. He noted that the book specifically outlines how his administration used the media to elevate Nigeria’s cultural profile.

I chose to focus on the book’s culture and tourism aspects because of the event’s theme. The book details how we leveraged the media to promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential during our administration,” he said.

He highlighted major milestones, such as the restoration of the National Theatre and the high-profile repatriation of stolen artefacts.

“In 2019, I launched a global campaign for the restitution of these artefacts. I am pleased to report that we have made significant progress. In 2022, we signed an agreement with Germany for the return of 1,130 Benin Bronzes, the largest single restitution of looted artefacts in modern history. We have also recovered dozens of artworks from the Netherlands, Mexico, France, the United Kingdom and the United States, among others,’’ the former Minister said.

State officials echoed Mohammed’s sentiments. The Ogun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Sesan Fagbayi, confirmed that the revamped Olumo Rock is already proving its worth as a revenue generator.

Mr. Bola Basibo, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, further explained that the state aims to make Olumo Rock more than just a site for hiking.

“The Governor is determined to make Olumo Rock the foremost tourist site in the state. Beyond rock climbing, it will become a hub for cultural dialogue, historical learning and tourism engagement,” Basibo said.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What was the main message of Lai Mohammed’s speech at Olumo Rock?

His primary message was that Nigerians must stop projecting a negative image of the country, as “badmouthing” the nation discourages foreign tourists and undermines the economic potential of the tourism and culture sectors.

What is the significance of the revamped Olumo Rock?

The site has been transformed from a basic historical landmark into a modern heritage facility. It serves as a model for how visionary leadership and investment can turn cultural sites into major economic drivers.

What is the title of Lai Mohammed’s new book, and what does it cover?

The book is titled *Headlines and Soundbites: Media Moments That Defined an Administration.* It provides an insider’s account of media strategy, public communication, and cultural diplomacy during his eight-year tenure as Minister.

How much does tourism contribute to the global economy?

According to data cited from the WTTC and UNESCO, tourism contributes over $10 trillion to the global economy (about 10-11% of global GDP) and supports over 330 million jobs.

What progress has been made regarding Nigeria’s stolen artefacts?

Under Mohammed’s tenure, Nigeria successfully negotiated the return of 1,130 Benin Bronzes from Germany and recovered various other artworks from countries including the US, UK, France, and the Netherlands.