.urge FG to harness culture, diplomacy, security for growth
Nigeria has the potential to surpass the projected $5 billion contribution from tourism to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) within the next five years, if the Federal Government prioritises security, cultural promotion, and diplomatic collaboration, experts have said.
Speaking at the 2025 World Tourism Day celebration in Abuja, stakeholders emphasised that with reforms, private sector investment, and authentic storytelling, the sector could become a major driver of Nigeria’s economic diversification.
The event, themed “Tourism and Sustainable Transportation”, gathered diplomats, lawmakers, security chiefs, and industry stakeholders, who underscored the need for stronger collaboration, security, and policy reforms to unlock Nigeria’s vast tourism potential.
Edet Ekpenyong, Country Director and Head of Mission of the ISD in Nigeria, noted that tourism has remained a key driver of global economic growth since the United Nations declared September 27 as World Tourism Day in 1979.
He said Nigeria must embrace tourism as a job-creation tool, stressing that the organisation’s partnership with the European Union Cultural Organization would help strengthen cultural diplomacy and visibility.
“Tourism creates jobs and drives economic emancipation, especially in countries like Nigeria where unemployment remains a major challenge,” he said.
Delivering his keynote speech, Edet emphasized the importance of tourism diplomacy in driving Africa’s transformation. Tourism diplomacy fosters cross-cultural understanding, generates jobs, builds bridges between nations, and promotes economic empowerment.
“Beyond that, it is also a form of soft power, allowing countries to showcase their culture, history, and values,” he said.
Ekpenyong praised ISD’s African Directorate for convening what he described as “a timely dialogue,” urging governments across the continent to adopt policies that deliberately harness tourism for sustainable growth.
He stressed that, if properly promoted, Nigeria and Africa could reposition themselves as global tourism destinations, with enormous benefits for diplomacy, security, and trade.
Olusola Odumosu, Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), FCT Command, said tourism and security were inseparable.
“There cannot be tourism without security. Many tourist sites are located in forest corridors and require strong investment in security to attract visitors. If people do not feel safe, they will not come,” he cautioned,
He urged FG to learn from countries like Kenya and South Africa that have built global reputations as safe tourist destinations.
Phil Roberts, national president of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), emphasised the role of diplomacy in building trust and partnerships.
“You cannot do tourism without diplomacy. What is needed now is not just hosting events but implementing practical actions that promote Nigeria as a destination,” he said.
He projected that Nigeria could inject up to $5 billion into its GDP through tourism in the coming years if properly supported.
“The way you promote your country is how the world will perceive it. Nigerians must stop spreading negative narratives that discourage visitors. Tourism diplomacy can help change perceptions,” he advised.
On the legislative front, Chidi Jacob, a member of the Senate Committee on Tourism, expressed optimism that Nigeria could exceed the $5 billion target within five years if reforms are pursued.
“This is not an ambitious estimate. With digital integration, private sector-driven platforms, and authentic storytelling, we can make tourism a serious business contributor to Nigeria’s economy.
“The truth is, insecurity is a very big challenge and without security, you cannot promote tourism. Nigeria must also address religious and cultural attitudes that hinder the sector,” he said.