Kaduna-based tourism expert Dr. Tobi Bernard Thomas has urged Nigerians and the government to invest more in the tourism sector, emphasizing that proper investment will add value to the nation’s economy.
Dr. Thomas stressed the need to strengthen tourism activities in the country and provide direction to industry key players through the Federal Government.
In a statement released in Kaduna on Thursday, Dr. Thomas noted that the tourism sector has the potential to create jobs, strengthen local economies, contribute to infrastructure development, and conserve natural environments and cultural heritage.
He explained that tourism activities contribute to three high-priority goals in developing countries: income generation, employment, and foreign-exchange earnings.
Dr. Thomas highlighted tourism investment’s benefits, including boosting revenue, creating thousands of jobs, developing infrastructure, and fostering global relationships.
He emphasized that tourism provides financial means and incentives to preserve cultural histories, local heritage sites, and customs.
Regarding economic factors affecting tourism, Dr. Thomas cited income levels, economic changes, and the general economy’s structure as having a direct impact.
He added that tourist purchasing power, funding, and financing costs are influenced by prices and monetary value.
Dr. Thomas encouraged Nigerians and stakeholders to consider the sector’s potential economic gains, urging governments at all levels to show interest and support.
