Ben Ezechime, Enugu
The Enugu State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mrs Ugochi Madueke, has said that Enugu State remained the epicentre of Tourism in Nigeria.
Madueke said this while declaring open a 2-day workshop on domestic tourism organised in Enugu, by a private enterprise, Jands Travel Business School, Enugu.
According to her, Enugu State was the place to begin when thinking of tourism in Nigeria.
Madueke further described tourism as more than just economic driver but a bridge that connects cultures, fosters understanding and promotes sustainable development.
“As we acknowledge today all the tourist sites that we have in Enugu, I want to plead with everybody here, when you think of tourism, when you think of domestic tourism, always bear in mind that charity begins at home and Enugu is the place to start,” she said.
The commissioner also commended the organisers of the event for deeming it fit to honour individuals who have dedicated their efforts in advancement of tourism and hospitality in the South-East region.
“Jands has long been a beacon of excellence in tourism and hospitality sector.
“Not only for its commitment to quality services but also for recognising those whose hard work and innovation drive this vital industry forward,” she said.
Earlier the Coordinator of the Workshop and Director, Jands Travel Business School, Enugu, Mrs Chioma Obi, explained that the workshop was borne out of the need to unlock the immense potentials of domestic tourism in Enugu State and South-East geopolitical zone.
“With our rich cultural heritage, diverse natural landscapes, and resilient people, the time has come to build a more robust and sustainable tourism ecosystem,” Obi said.
She said that the focus of the gathering was to foster collaboration between the private sector and the government while inspiring innovation and entrepreneurship within the country.
“In five years, we see a Nigeria where domestic tourism is driving economic sector, creating jobs, promoting cultural preservation, and driving local development.
“Through initiatives like this workshop, we are laying the groundwork for a future where our local destinations are celebrated and recognised globally,” she said.
Obi also used the opportunity to introduce “EnuguXplore” a platform dedicated to showcasing Enugu State’s rich tourism potential.
She said that the objective is to bridge the gap between local attractions and tourists, providing a seamless experience that promotes our culture, cuisines, natural beauty and history.
Obi explained that the 2024 Jands Visionary Awards, was to recognize and celebrate excellence in travel, tourism, hospitality, arts, culture, entrepreneurship, and humanity.
All the speakers including the President of NANTA, Olayinka Folami, shared their tourism experiences and services concluding the need for collaborations between the private sector and the government.
Folami said that the workshop was apt and timely, reiterating that the theme of the workshop is, “Exploring A Synergy To Boost Business & Entrepreneurship.”
The President of NANTA said that the outcome of the Workshop would help to explore ways to grow business through tourism in the country.
“The workshop had robust deliberations that will stimulate the hospitality and tourism sectors in the country,” he added.
Among the speakers were: Ayodeji Awomoyi, Chief Ben Etiaba, Barrister Pat Igwebuike.
The highpoints of the event were awards of excellence to the Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah and the Commissioner of Culture and Tourism, Dame Madueke.
