‘Security, safety key to tourism in Nigeria’

Security and safety are essential for a thriving tourism industry, as they directly impact a traveler’s decision-making process. This sentiment was echoed on Saturday in Abuja by stakeholders at the 8th International Hospitality, Tourism and Eco-Sustainability Forum (IHTEF), with the theme: “Innovation, investment, security and sustainability.” Speaking, Hon Jerry Egemba, Imo State Commissioner for Culture, […]

Security and safety are essential for a thriving tourism industry, as they directly impact a traveler’s decision-making process.

This sentiment was echoed on Saturday in Abuja by stakeholders at the 8th International Hospitality, Tourism and Eco-Sustainability Forum (IHTEF), with the theme: “Innovation, investment, security and sustainability.”

Speaking, Hon Jerry Egemba, Imo State Commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Hospitality, noted that without the provision of security and critical infrastructure, tourism development will remain a mirage.

“Without peace and security, the best tourist attractions will be inaccessible to anybody. As a matter of fact, without peace and security and stability, travel advisories will actually discourage or even prohibit tourists from coming into those areas and the people don’t invest really in the areas where there is instability or insecurity,”

Egemba said in Imo, kinetic and non-kinetic approach had been deployed to make the environment safe for tourists

Umar Bago, Niger State Governor, represented by Zainab Mohammed, General Manager Of Niger State Tourism Corporation, said for too long the North’s hospitality potential had remained underdeveloped due to limited investment, infrastructure gaps and security concerns.

Speaking further, Bago said: “Northern Nigeria has unique tourism assets that can power new waves of sustainable hospitality development. Hospitality is not a sector in the north, it is a way of life. What is needed now is the structure and inclusive model that converts this culture of hospitality into a thriving business and a thriving industry.

“Unlocking this potential means investing in infrastructure: roads, airports, energy and digital connectivity.”

Chibuikem Diala, Executive Director of IHTEF Africa, said Nigeria’s hospitality sector has seen significant development in recent years, with new properties and luxurious hotels emerging in cities like Abuja.

“The sector’s growth potential is substantial, driven by a surge in domestic tourism and increasing business travel,” he said.

However, Diala identified challenges facing the sector, including human capital development, regulation, and funding.

Diala estimated that the value of the hospitality market in Nigeria is significant, running into multi-billions of dollars.

“With the right investment and management, the sector can unlock new opportunities for growth and success,” he said.

Karl Hala, Group General Manager of Continental Hotels, emphasised the importance of training and mentoring young Nigerians to provide exceptional service and leadership in the hospitality industry.

He suggested key initiatives to support the development of world-class hospitality talent, including: Mentorship Programmes: Pairing young professionals with experienced industry experts, Training Academies: Providing comprehensive training in hospitality skills, Skill Acceleration Programs: Enhancing skills and knowledge in specific areas.