Nigeria Set to Unveil National Tourism Policy, Paving Way for Sector Transformation
The Nigerian government is on the brink of a major breakthrough for the country’s tourism sector, with the imminent launch of the National Tourism Policy. This long-anticipated policy is poised to reposition tourism as a central pillar of economic growth, signaling a new era for one of Africa’s most promising yet underutilized industries.
Speaking at the recent ‘Destination Nigeria Governors Tourism Conference’ in Abuja, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, emphasized the administration’s renewed commitment to harnessing tourism as a key driver of economic diversification. Represented by her Chief of Staff, Raphael Obi, the minister highlighted that the National Tourism Policy, which had been stalled for years, is now before the Cabinet Affairs Office and is expected to be presented to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) within weeks.
Obi underscored the government’s belief that tourism offers one of the most viable pathways for Nigeria’s economic transformation. “For tourism, you must have heard over time that the only way to diversify Nigeria’s economy is through tourism. And all over the world, tourism remains one of the greatest sources of revenue and development of any country,” he stated. The policy’s activation is expected to catalyze a new wave of investment and innovation, with the government already issuing specific mandates to accelerate sector growth.
Among the priority projects receiving federal backing is the ambitious redevelopment of the Obudu Mountain Resort. This iconic destination is undergoing a comprehensive upgrade, including the construction of a private-sector-funded airport that is now 85 percent complete. The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) is also investing in a dedicated 2.5-megawatt electricity supply for the resort, valued at nearly \$2.5 million. In addition, the federal government is injecting 5 billion naira to rehabilitate and modernize the resort’s infrastructure, aiming to elevate it to world-class standards.
These investments are part of a broader strategy to unlock Nigeria’s vast tourism potential, with a focus on creating sustainable jobs, attracting foreign exchange, and fostering inclusive growth. The government’s approach recognizes the importance of both public and private sector collaboration in achieving these goals.
Ola Awakan, Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, echoed this sentiment at the conference. He stressed that Nigeria’s tourism ambitions can only be realized through robust partnerships between government and private enterprise. Awakan praised the event’s convener, Ayo Omotoso, for spearheading a strategic initiative capable of transforming the sector. He pointed out that Nigeria’s states are the heartbeat of the country’s tourism ecosystem, each offering unique attractions and comparative advantages. If properly harnessed, these assets can stimulate local enterprise, generate employment, and significantly boost internally generated revenue.
Awakan painted a vision of a future where tourism is not an afterthought but a primary engine of prosperity. He called for a Nigeria where young people find purpose and income in creative and tourism enterprises, where heritage sites, festivals, and natural wonders are protected and profitably managed, and where every state emerges as a destination in its own right.
Infrastructure development remains a cornerstone of the government’s tourism strategy. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, represented by his Senior Special Assistant, Administration, Udo Atam, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to preserving the Abuja master plan and maintaining the capital in line with global best practices. Wike warned against the misuse of public spaces, emphasizing that transforming Abuja into a world-class capital is a top priority for President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Ongoing infrastructure expansion across the territory is a testament to this commitment, with efforts underway to reclaim public assets and ensure that the city’s wealth benefits all citizens.
The unveiling of the National Tourism Policy is expected to mark a turning point for Nigeria’s tourism industry. By providing a clear framework for development, investment, and regulation, the policy aims to address longstanding challenges and unlock new opportunities for growth. The government’s proactive stance is already attracting interest from both local and international investors, eager to participate in the sector’s transformation.
For Africa’s travel sector, Nigeria’s renewed focus on tourism sends a powerful signal. As one of the continent’s largest economies, Nigeria’s success in repositioning tourism could serve as a blueprint for other African nations seeking to diversify their economies and create sustainable livelihoods. The emphasis on public-private collaboration, infrastructure development, and the preservation of cultural and natural assets aligns with global best practices and reflects the evolving expectations of today’s travelers.
Looking ahead, the activation of the National Tourism Policy is set to usher in a new era of growth and innovation for Nigeria’s tourism sector. With strategic investments, strong leadership, and a commitment to inclusive development, Nigeria is well-positioned to become a leading destination for both domestic and international visitors. The ripple effects of this transformation will be felt across the continent, offering valuable lessons and inspiration for Africa’s broader travel industry.
