Tourism Key To Nigeria’s Economic Diversification, Says NTDA

The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) emphasized the importance of tourism in diversifying Nigeria's economy away from oil dependency. Speaking at a Ministerial Sectoral Retreat in Abuja, NTDA Director Ovie Richard Esewhaye highlighted tourism as a dynamic sector with significant global economic impact.

Esewhaye noted that tourism currently contributes nearly 10% of the global GDP and is projected to increase with an estimated billion international arrivals by 2030. He emphasized the need for Nigeria to strategically invest in tourism to unlock job opportunities, foreign exchange earnings, and rural development.

Despite Nigeria's vast tourism assets such as coastlines, wildlife, cultural festivals, and natural landmarks, they remain underutilized. Esewhaye urged the nation to capitalize on these resources to drive inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and international competitiveness.