Tourism Industry Holds Significant Potential for Economic Growth, Development in Nigeria – KADPoly Rector
By: Edirin Robinson
The Department of Tourism Management and Technology at Kaduna Polytechnic recently celebrated World Tourism Day 2025, emphasizing the need for sustainable transformation within the tourism industry. The event, themed “Tourism for Sustainable Transformation,” gathered stakeholders from the tourism sector, academia, and government to discuss the vital role tourism plays in driving economic growth, preserving culture, and ensuring environmental protection.
Dr. Suleiman Umar, the Rector of Kaduna Polytechnic, highlighted the importance of innovation and technology in advancing sustainable tourism. He noted that tools such as virtual tours and digital marketing are essential for this purpose. The event underscored the need for collaboration and partnerships among academia, industry, and government to effectively promote sustainable tourism practices.
Tourism is a powerful catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and local economic stimulation. It can also significantly contribute to preserving cultural heritage and fostering cross-cultural understanding. Implementing sustainable tourism practices is crucial for protecting the environment and encouraging eco-tourism.
In his remarks, Kabir Ali Masalawa, Advisor to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy (FMACCE), emphasized tourism’s potential to drive economic growth and create jobs in Nigeria. He stressed the importance of sustainability in the country’s tourism sector, particularly in areas like eco-tourism and creative tourism.
Masalawa noted that Nigeria’s tourism industry serves as a soft power, showcasing the nation’s rich cultural heritage and creative potential to a global audience. He pointed out that one in every ten jobs worldwide is related to tourism, and Nigeria could leverage this potential to create more job opportunities and stimulate economic growth. He also highlighted the country’s strengths in entertainment and culture, which are key drivers of the tourism sector.
Masalawa encouraged creativity and innovation among young people in the tourism industry. While acknowledging that insecurity poses challenges for tourism in Nigeria, he urged stakeholders to focus on the country’s strengths while efforts are made to address these issues. He recognized that Nigeria’s tourism industry holds vast growth opportunities, especially in eco-tourism and creative tourism.
Similarly, the National President of the Hospitality and Tourism Management Association of Nigeria (HATMAN), Prince Ayodele Arokoyo Martins, expressed optimism regarding the tourism sector’s potential to foster economic growth and development in Nigeria. He highlighted the role of tourism in creating memorable experiences and showcasing destinations.
HATMAN is dedicated to enhancing the skills and competencies of individuals in the tourism industry through training and policy development. The association is actively engaging with the government to stimulate tourism development and promote the industry’s growth. Recognizing security as a significant challenge, Martins expressed hope that both the government and the private sector would work together to address these concerns. He is optimistic that the combined efforts of HATMAN and other stakeholders will lead to a transformation in the tourism sector, unlocking its potential for economic growth and development.
