The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Industry, Hannatu Musawa, has issued a rallying cry for a stronger role of the private sector in revitalizing Nigeria’s cultural tourism and enhancing the country’s global image during her address at the 50th anniversary and Annual General Meeting of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA).
Musawa praised the efforts of travel professionals, acknowledging them as unofficial diplomats for Nigeria, who have effectively kept the country’s presence felt on international stages like the World Travel Market in London—often with limited governmental support. “Your dedication is critical to projecting Nigeria’s identity and influence abroad,” she stated.
Emphasizing the need for collaboration, Musawa pointed out that the tourism sector cannot thrive on government initiatives alone, urging for a united front between the public and private sectors. “Sustainable development in tourism depends on shared responsibility and long-term investment rather than mere government funding,” she said.
A highlight of the minister’s remarks was her endorsement of NANTA’s initiative to establish a professional training institute. This institute is envisioned as a globally recognized certification hub for travel and tourism professionals. Musawa remarked, “Building human capacity is essential to transforming Nigeria into a competitive destination capable of attracting international visitors while showcasing our rich culture and creative assets.”
The minister connected the growth of tourism to a shift in the global narrative about Nigeria. She argued that increasing the nation’s visibility will not only counter negative stereotypes but will also amplify its strengths on the world stage. By encouraging diaspora engagement and promoting Nigeria as a cultural and economic powerhouse, Musawa believes the travel industry can play a pivotal role in reshaping perceptions.
Looking forward, she urged NANTA to take advantage of its golden jubilee as a crucial turning point. “This is an opportunity to transition from national relevance to global leadership,” she asserted. Musawa pledged that her ministry would actively collaborate with industry stakeholders to deliver tangible initiatives by 2027, stating, “With the right strategies, Nigeria’s travel sector can become a major driver of jobs, investment, and international influence over the next fifty years.”
As the nation seeks to diversify its economy away from oil reliance, Musawa’s vision for a robust partnership between the government and the private sector in the tourism industry could serve as a catalyst for significant economic growth and cultural promotion in Nigeria.
