Nigeria Aims to Become Top African Tourist Destination with New Partnerships

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FG Aims to Position Nigeria as Africa’s Leading Tourist Destination

The Nigerian government has emphasised the need for local and international stakeholders to partner with the government to achieve its vision of advancing the creative economy and positioning the country as a top tourist destination in Africa. Which aims to position

The minister of Art, Culture, Tourism,​​ and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa-Musawa​, disclosed this on March 1st at a press conference in Lagos. She affirmed that her ministry has achieved significant milestones in advancing Nigeria’s creative economy and tourism sector.

The minister pointed out that the core mandate has been to build an integrated, data-driven, and investment-friendly ecosystem that has the potential to unlock the industry’s many opportunities.

She said, “Mr. President mandated that I do whatever is necessary to ensure that players in the industry get what they need to grow the industry. One of the obvious things was underfunding. Everyone knew that Nigerians have so many ideas but don’t have the funding to grow their craft.”

To this end, the minister maintained that the $200m African Export-Import Bank fund, which will become operational on June 1, 2025, would help boost Nigeria’s tourism and creative economy.

According to her, the ministry has worked closely with the bank and will ensure that the funds are deployed directly to where the players need them. She added, “It is a revolution, as nothing of this kind has been done before.”

She said her commitment to developing the nation’s tourism, culture and creative economy sectors aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which was carefully designed to promote economic growth, cultural enrichment and community empowerment through job creation.

Musawa, who emphasised the need for sustainable tourism practices, infrastructure development, and community engagement, added that her ministry was determined to use the power of arts and creativity to boost the economy, preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage and share the country’s culture with the world.

As one making a pioneering effort, the minister said, “There is not enough infrastructure for the industry. We will prioritise and ensure we get the right infrastructure. President Tinubu promised to do things differently for the benefit of all, so we are putting proper foundations in place that will outlive us.”

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FAQs

What is the Federal Government’s goal for Nigeria’s tourism sector?

The Federal Government aims to position Nigeria as a top tourist destination in Africa by enhancing the creative economy and tourism sector.

What challenges has the tourism sector faced in Nigeria?

One major challenge has been underfunding, which, despite the abundance of ideas, has hindered the growth of creative industries.

How does the African Export-Import Bank fund support Nigeria’s tourism?

When it becomes operational in June 2025, the $200 million fund from the African Export-Import Bank is expected to boost Nigeria’s tourism and creative economy.

What initiatives is the government implementing to support the tourism sector?

The government supports the sector by focusing on sustainable tourism practices, infrastructure development, and community engagement.

What role does infrastructure play in developing Nigeria’s tourism?

Infrastructure development is a priority to ensure the tourism industry has the necessary facilities to grow and attract more visitors.