Former President of the Guild of Tourism Journalists in Nigeria, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to increase the budgetary allocation for the newly created Ministry of Tourism and its parastatals.
Barrister Ojo-Lanre, who is also the Director-General of the Bureau of Tourism Development in Ekiti State, made this call during an engagement with journalists in Ado Ekiti after delivering a goodwill message at a workshop organised by South-West/Niger Delta Forest Development with the theme: Ecotourism Development and Tourism Business Development of the Ise Forest Conservation Area.
Barrister Ojo-Lanre who commended President Tinubu for creating a stand-alone Ministry for the sector pointed out that without a considerable budget allocation to the new Ministry and its parastatals, the speedy progression of the tourism sector will not only be stunted, but the Ministry will be winking in the dark.
Barrister Ojo-Lanre revealed that Nigeria’s tourism sector has immense potential to contribute to the country’s economy and job creation significantly. To fully realize this potential, it is paramount that the industry receives sufficient attention and support.
The Federal Government and National Assembly would demonstrate their commitment to unlocking the sector’s immense potential by increasing budget funding for the Tourism Ministry and its parastatals.
Barrister Ojo-Lanre also urged the National Assembly to add legislative value and the necessary legal framework so that the new Ministry and its parastatals hit the ground running.
Recognizing the immense human capital development needs of the tourism industry, Barrister Ojo-Lanre urged them to allocate a bumper budget for the National Institute for Tourism and Hospitality Development (NIHOTOUR), which is saddled with the manpower development of the sector.
He pointed out the urgent need to pay close attention to manpower development in the tourism sector, which thrives on excellent service dictated by international standards and rules.
Barrister Ojo-Lanre revealed that the National Institute for Tourism and Hospitality Development plays a vital role in equipping the sector with skilled professionals and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
He emphasised that the funding boost would enable the institute to enhance its training programs, infrastructure, and research capabilities. By providing quality education and hands-on training, NIHTOUR has the power to nurture a skilled workforce that matches the industry’s demands and international standards.
Barrister Ojo-Lanre highlights that investing in the tourism and hospitality has numerous socio-economic benefits. It creates job opportunities, drives entrepreneurship, boosts local businesses, and contributes to community development.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by the country in allocating funds to various sectors,
Barrister Ojo-Lanre underscored the critical importance of prioritising the development of the tourism industry. Increased investment in human capital development will propel Nigeria towards becoming a competitive tourism destination and generate positive ripple effects across various sectors.
He urged the Federal Government and National Assembly to heed this call for better budget funding for the Ministry of Tourism, the National Institute for Tourism and Hospitality Development, and the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority. By doing so, they will create a thriving and sustainable tourism industry that will contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth and overall development.
