Federal Government has been urged to de-emphasise its reliance on earnings from petroleum in its efforts to address its revenue inadequacy.
A United States-based tourism expert, Peter Egbudom, said it was time governments focus more on developing other sources of revenue, particularly culture and tourism.
Egbudom, the brain behind the annual Igbo Fest in Minnesota, United States, noted Nigeria is in need of legitimate foreign investment through tourism.
He said the country’s rich cultural heritage can be harnessed to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
“Our rich cultural heritage is an area governments and the private investor should develop to earn foreign revenue through tourism.
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“With the Igbo Fest in Minnesota in the U.S, scheduled between August 10 and 11, Nigerians can showcase our rich and diverse cultural heritage, as avenue to further promote our tourism potential.”
Egbudom, who spoke in Abuja, said the festival, the 28th, is organised by Umunne Cultural Association in Minnesota..
“It is no longer news Nigeria is facing its biggest challenge arising from diminishing internal revenue and inadequate foreign investments.
“With this scenario, Nigeria needs legitimate foreign investment through tourism .
“Our diverse cultural heritage and related potential have been left untapped. These opportunities could be harnessed to attract investments.”