By Flowerbudnews
Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State says tourism is more than just economic driver but a bridge that connects cultures, foster understanding and promotes sustainable development.
Mbah, represented by the state Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, said this while declaring open a two-day workshop on domestic tourism in Enugu on Sunday.
The governor said that “Enugu State, with its great potentials and natural endowments, is the place to start when thinking of tourism in Nigeria.”
“As we acknowledge all the tourist sites that I have mentioned that we have in Enugu State, I want to plead with everybody here, when you think of tourism, you think of domestic tourism, always bear in mind that charity begins at home and Enugu State is the place,” he said.
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Mbah commended the organisers for deeming it fit to honour those individuals who have dedicated their efforts in advancement of tourism and hospitality in the state and South-East region.
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“Jands has long been a beacon of excellence in tourism and hospitality sector. Not only for its commitment to quality services but also for recognising those whose hard work and innovation drive this vital industry forward,” he said.
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Ealier, the Coordinator of the Workshop and Director, Jands Travel Business School, Enugu, Mrs Chioma Obi, explained that the workshop was borne out of the need to unlock the immense potential of domestic tourism in Nigeria.
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“With our rich cultural heritage, diverse natural landscapes, and resilient people, the time has come to build a more robust and sustainable tourism ecosystem,” Obi said.
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She noted that the focus of the gathering was to foster collaboration between the private sector and the government while inspiring innovation and entrepreneurship within the country.
On vision for the future, the Jands boss noted, “In five years, we see a Nigeria where domestic tourism is thriving economic sector, creating jobs, promoting cultural preservation and driving local development.
“Through initiatives like this workshop, we are laying the groundwork for a future where our local destinations are celebrated and recognized globally.”
Obi also used the opportunity to introduce EnuguXplore, a platform dedicated to showcasing Enugu State’s rich tourism potential.
“The objective is to bridge the gap between local attractions and tourists, providing a seamless experience that promotes our culture, cuisines, natural beauty and history.”
For the 2024 Jands Visionary Awards, Obi explained, “It is part of the workshop to recognise and celebrate excellence in travel, tourism, hospitality, arts, culture, entrepreneurship, and humanity.”
In a goodwill message, the President of National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA), Mr Olayinka Folami, said that the workshop is apt and timely as well as promote cooperation among people.
Reiterating on that the theme of the workshop is, “Exploring a Synergy to Boost Business and Entrepreneurship”, Folami said that the outcome of the Workshop would help to explore ways to grow business and networking through tourism in the country.
“The workshop will dwell on robust deliberations that will stimulate the hospitality and tourism sectors in Enugu State, South-East and the country at large,” he added.
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The highpoints of the first day of the event were awards of excellence on Gov. Mbah, Madueke and others as well as panellists and question/answer sessions.
