Utilizing Nigeria’s Diverse Culture and Tourism for Economic Advancement
Retired Major General Ibrahim Bata Malgwi Haruna, the Former Federal Information and Culture Commissioner in Nigeria, delivered a speech at a book launch in Abuja, Nigeria, where he underscored the potential for Nigeria to utilize its diverse culture and tourism sector for economic growth amidst declining oil revenue. The book, titled “Harnessing CULTOUR for Economic Growth”, penned by Chuks Akamadu, served as the focal point of the event. Haruna emphasized the necessity of developing and maintaining cultural sites and tourist attractions to attract both local and foreign visitors, and generate substantial revenue for the country.
In his address, Haruna highlighted various locations within Nigeria, such as the Obudu Cattle Ranch in Cross River state, the FESTAC,77 building and the artifacts in Lagos state, and the Mambila Plateau in Taraba state, which, he noted, were previously popular but have now declined due to inadequate maintenance. He expressed that Nigeria has the potential to exhibit its rich cultural heritage and historical contributions through festivals and documentaries to attract global interest in its cultural and tourism landscape.
Haruna also stressed the essential role of responsible leadership at all levels in revitalizing the culture and tourism sector. Meanwhile, Dr. Elizabeth Ben Iheanacho, a former Director of the National Council for Arts and Culture, provided a review of the book, emphasizing the need for a resurgence in the culture and tourism industry.
The book, “Harnessing CULTOUR for Economic Growth”, introduces a term “CULTOUR” which reflects the fusion of culture, tourism, and creativity as a means for economic transformation in Nigeria. It recommends reshaping Nigeria’s policy on Culture and Tourism and the establishment of a Bank of Entertainment. The book also proposes transforming harrowing historical moments into educational and revenue-generating attractions, drawing from examples in Rwanda’s experience. Additionally, it suggests the abolition of the division between the Culture and Tourism Ministry and the professional management of the ministry by experts, akin to how other key ministries are managed in Nigeria.
Akamadu, the author of the book, expressed his concern over the neglect of Nigeria’s culture and tourism sector, advocating for its potential to propel the Nigerian economy. He compared Nigeria’s current economic challenges, including debt servicing and the depletion of non-renewable resources, with the success of Asian countries that have utilized culture and tourism to grow their economies. He also noted that embracing CULTOUR would be an effective strategy for Nigeria to leverage its abundant cultural heritage and tourism destinations to attract global attention and drive economic growth. Finally, the commissioner of Culture and Tourism in Taraba state, Agbu Kefas, endorsed the book and revealed plans to integrate its insights into the state’s tourism revolution, underscoring the significance of Taraba’s diverse cultural landscape.
The book launch brought together notable figures from various parts of Nigeria, signifying the significance of the culture and tourism sector for the nation’s economic prosperity.
