Expert Tasks FG On Sustainable And Responsible Tourism In Nigeria

NEWSDAILYNIGERIA: A critical stakeholder in the tourism and hospitality industry in Nigeria, Dr. Tobi Bernard Thomas has tasked the Federal Government on sustainable and responsible tourism in the country for economic growth.

Dr. Thomas also urged the Federal Government to promote tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, that is capable of addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.

The expert asserted this in Kaduna at the weekend while addressing a press conference.

He noted that, hence the need for government to ensure inclusiveness of all stakeholders such as local government, media, tourism business, tourism community, travel bloggers, government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), local communities, and tourism establishments.

While speaking, Dr. Thomas explained that the most important economic feature of activities related to the tourism sector is that they contribute to three high-priority goals of developing countries: the generation of income, employment, and foreign-exchange earnings.

According to him, Tourism boosts the revenue of the economy, creates thousands of jobs, develops the infrastructures of a country, and plants a sense of cultural exchange between foreigners and citizens.

On the role of tourism and hospitality in a country’s economy, he disclosed thzt tourism industry’s revenue helps the government build the necessary infrastructure like bridges and rail-lines, which furthers the development of a country.

“By increasing the amount of footfall into a country, the tourism sector also boosts other industries. Therefore, inbound tourism earnings and financial institutions can be used as a channel to increase economic grow.

“Tourism is vital for the success of many economies around the world. There are several benefits of tourism on host destinations. Also, tourism helps to enhance employment opportunities and earnings, which can be of major economic significance to the local population,,” Dr. Thomas explained.