The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with the Edo State Government to unlock the state’s vast tourism potential and position it as a leading destination for culture, heritage, and investment.
According to a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, the Director-General of the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Dr. Ola Awakan, gave the assurance on Monday while declaring open the two-day Edo Tourism Summit, Exhibition and Fashion Show in Benin City.
Awakan said Edo’s abundant tourism resources could only be fully developed through strategic collaboration among government institutions, the private sector, investors, and other critical stakeholders.
“The tourism potential in Edo cannot be harnessed in isolation. Strong synergy is required, particularly with the private sector. We must work together to unlock the immense opportunities within the sector,” he said.
He noted that Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage presents a unique opportunity to reshape the country’s image internationally, stressing that the nation should be known for its culture, traditions, and artistic excellence rather than negative narratives.
“Nigeria is not a country defined by violence or insecurity. We are a people blessed with rich culture, enduring traditions, and remarkable artistic heritage.
“We must work together to change the negative narrative about our country by telling our stories through arts and culture. I am confident that this summit will produce a practical master plan that will drive tourism development,” Awakan added.
He described tourism as one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, noting that it plays a significant role in job creation, foreign exchange earnings, infrastructure development, cultural preservation, and community empowerment.
In her keynote address, the Director-General of the Edo State Tourism Agency, Mrs. Vivian Elabor, said the summit had brought together policymakers, investors, tourists, and cultural ambassadors with a shared vision of unlocking Edo’s immense tourism potential.
She described Edo as a state renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, world-class arts and crafts, historical monuments, colourful festivals, and ecological attractions, which provide a strong foundation for a thriving tourism economy.
According to her, the summit is expected to stimulate discussions on digital transformation, investment opportunities, sustainability, innovation, and community partnerships that will shape the future of tourism development in the state.
“The partnerships forged here will play a significant role in shaping the future of tourism in Edo State,” she said.
Elabor also commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his commitment to developing the tourism sector and recognising its strategic importance in driving economic diversification under the administration’s SHINE Agenda.
She encouraged investors and development partners to take advantage of the numerous opportunities available in the state.
“I encourage investors and development partners to see Edo as a land of opportunities. We are open to collaboration and committed to creating an enabling environment for tourism and the creative economy to thrive,” she said.
Also speaking, the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Mr. Musa Ikhilor, highlighted Edo’s numerous tourism assets and stressed the need to digitise and effectively promote them to increase their visibility and economic value.
He urged residents to serve as tourism ambassadors by showcasing the state’s historical monuments, cultural heritage, and tourist attractions to attract more visitors and strengthen the tourism industry.
