‘It’ll save our dwindling economy’ — culture ambassador asks Tinubu to prioritise tourism

Peter Egbudom, a Nigerian cultural ambassador, has asked the federal government to develop the country’s tourism sector to attract foreign direct investments. 

Speaking with journalists, Egbudom said prioritising tourism in Nigeria can salvage the nation’s dwindling economy.

He also urged President Bola Tinubu to create a tourism board to harness the country’s diverse cultural heritage “that has been left untapped for so many years”.

Egbudom spoke in regard to the forthcoming 2023 Igbo Fest of the Umunne Cultural Association in Minnesota, United States.

He said the annual event will be held from August 11 and 12. The ceremony is expected to host about 5,000 participants.

“It is no longer news that Nigeria is facing the biggest economic challenges arising from diminishing internal revenues and inadequate foreign investments. The matter is compounded with excruciating debt burdens that have affected other sectors of the country,” he said.

“The oil and gas sector is also facing severe dislocations as it is on record that Nigeria is unable to meet its OPEC’s quota. With this frightening scenario, Nigeria desperately needs legitimate foreign investment through tourism potential.

“Foreigners are usually excited about our cultural heritage, dressing and food. Our rich cultural heritage is an area where the federal, state, and local governments and private entities can come in and earn foreign revenues through tourism. Our diverse cultural heritage has been left untapped for so many years. This rich cultural heritage can be harnessed to bring investment to Nigeria.

“Government needs to put more money into our tourism sites to attract foreign investments. They can also send Nigerians to other countries that are doing well in tourism and develop ours in return.”

Egbudom added that his team is set to meet stakeholders in the country to discuss the investment potential in tourism.

“We have also reached out to Charles Soludo, Anambra state governor, and other south-east governors with the aim of asking them to participate in the festival to showcase the investment potentials of their states to Nigerians and other countries in the diaspora and earn revenues in the process,” he added.