The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with the Edo State Government to unlock the state’s rich tourism potential and strengthen Nigeria’s tourism sector.
Speaking on Monday at the opening of the two-day Edo Tourism Summit, Exhibition and Fashion Show in Benin City, the Director-General of the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Dr. Ola Awakan, said Edo’s tourism assets can only reach their full potential through collaboration among government, the private sector, and other critical stakeholders.
According to him, unlocking the immense opportunities within Edo’s tourism sector requires a united effort rather than isolated actions.
Awakan also stressed the need for Nigeria to leverage its rich culture and arts to reshape its global image and project more positive narratives to the world.
In her keynote address, the Director-General of the Edo State Tourism Agency, Mrs. Vivian Elabor, said the summit had brought together investors, tourists, and stakeholders to explore investment opportunities across the state’s tourism landscape.
She described Edo as a prime destination for culture, heritage, arts, festivals, and eco-tourism, adding that the summit would focus on digital transformation, investment, sustainability, and community partnerships. Elabor also commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for prioritising tourism through the SHINE Agenda.
Also speaking, the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, urged residents to actively promote Edo’s monuments, culture, and tourist attractions to attract more visitors.
The summit is expected to produce practical strategies that will strengthen tourism development and position Edo as one of Nigeria’s leading tourism destinations.
