UNWTO Conference: FG solicits support of corporate world

The Federal Government has appealed to the corporate world to join hands with it in showcasing the country to the globe during the conference of African Tourism Ministers of Tourism in June.
The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, made the appeal on Monday in Lagos, at a meeting with the Association of Nigeria Journalists and Editors of Tourism.
The minister also called on all Nigerians to support the government in making the hosting a success, adding “so much is expected from us, and we cannot afford to fail’’.
Nigeria, last year in Addis Ababa, won the right to host the 61st Meeting of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation/Commission for Africa scheduled for June 4 to June 6 this year.
Mohammed said that the meeting would be attended by delegates drawn from 51 African member states that formed the UNWTO/CAF, the Executives of the UNWTO, international organisations, local and international media as well as experts and stakeholders from the public and private sector.
He said: “We believe that this is a great opportunity for Nigeria, in that apart from the socio-economic gains, the event will put Nigeria and the nation’s tourism industry in particular, on the world map.
“It will attract foreign research experts and promote the necessary network that will form the basis for future cooperation.
“Of course, the meeting will also give Nigeria the opportunity to showcase itself to the world, especially in the area of its culture and tourism.
“Needless to say that we have so much to showcase, ranging from our tourist attractions and our rich culture to our music and films, which are the toast of the world.’’
The minister said that the theme of the meeting: “Tourism Statistics: A Catalyst for Development’’, was apt because it would give the country the opportunity of strengthening its tourism data gathering and analysis.
He said while the meeting and other events would be held in Abuja, the technical session would be held at the Eko Atlantic city in Lagos.
On the choice of Eko Atlantic city for the technical session, Mohammed explained “we have chosen this city because it is being positioned as a foremost tourist destination in Africa and beyond”.
Mohammed said: “When it is completed, the city will boast of the largest shopping mall in sub-Saharan Africa, vast amenities for entertainment, and a canal that can be used for water transportation and water sports, among others.
“We are presently working with the Lagos State Government and the City sponsors to make that visit a success.’’
Mohammed, who said that his ministry was on a nationwide promotional tour for the meeting, solicited the support of the journalists and editors of tourism for a successful hosting.
He disclosed that the government would sponsor 15 members of the umbrella organisation ANJET, to Abuja to cover the meeting.
The minister entertained questions on tourism and other sectors from members of the association.