The Federal Government has reassured operators in the tourism and transport sectors of an enabling environment to further boost the sector.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, who spoke at the Tourism Transportation Summit and Expo in Abuja, themed “Tourism and transportation interdependence for inclusive growth and sustainable development’, said the theme of the event was apt and that the synergy between the two sectors was desired more now than ever.
Represented by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Aisha Abubakar, Mustapha said: “From available records globally, there are so much that countries can benefit from the sectors, particularly as a source of foreign exchange, employment, income generation and infrastructure development.
“This explains why Nigeria should key into tourism and transportation in its economic and social agenda. To achieve success, both government and private sector must partner in the sectors.
“In this expo, I urge participants to dialogue and showcase products and services in the industries with the view to reposition the sector for optimal performance,” he said.
The SGF, however, said at the seminar organised by the Institute of Tourism Professional (ITP), in collaboration with stakeholders in the tourism and transport industry. said government will continue to give policy direction and guidelines and provide an enabling environment for industries to thrive.
“Also, tourism institutions should effectively deliver the advantages in the industry by creating awareness and understanding of the benefits to the country and enhancing institutional capacity, tourism products, development, facilitation, promotion and marketing with a view to making Nigeria a preferred destination among Nigerians,” he added.
He also said upgrade of infrastructure in the rail, aviation, water and others were efforts of the government to reposition the transport and tourism sector for inclusive economic development.
Mustapha stressed that Nigeria desired peace, reconstructive development and security for tourism to thrive.
According to him, the administration resolved to secure its citizens and visitors in their legitimate activities.
He stressed that the government would not be distracted by those involved in falsehood and negative commitments.
“However, in the face of mounting challenges, with absolute cooperation and if citizens play their civil duties and responsibilities, we will overcome these challenges and move the country forward.
“The government, on its part, is doing its best to adequately equip and motivate our security outfits to enable them confront insecurity challenges.
“So, by God’s grace, the country will achieve peace, security and credibility,’’ Mustapha said.
In his goodwill message, the Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, said transportation and tourism were inseparable in the development of the two sectors.
Amaechi, represented by the ministry’s Director of Road Transport and Mass Transit Administration, Mrs. Anthonia Ekpa, said the ministry was committed to linking transport with other sectors, including tourism, to boost the economy.
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