Tourism alone can drive economic diversification – says Ogun Commissioner

Nigeria's tourism industry is an unexplored goldmine, according to Ogun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Sesan Fagbayi, who has urged stakeholders to take advantage of its enormous potential for economic growth and diversification.

Speaking at a stakeholders' forum hosted by the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria in Abeokuta on Wednesday, Fagbayi, who was represented by the ministry's Mr. Michael Ogunbiyi, underlined that tourism presents a special chance to create jobs and promote Nigeria's rich cultural legacy internationally.

When we take into account its influence on trade, the arts, crafts, and agriculture, tourism on its own can propel economic diversification.

"We can effectively sell our legacy by utilising our cultural, athletic, and other tourism advantages. How would Nigerians and the rest of the world know what we have if we don't display these assets?" he asked.

Ogun State's numerous tourism attractions, such as Olumo Rock, Bilikisu Sungbo Shrine, Sacred Heart Hospital—the country's first hospital—and notable people like Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka and the Anikulapo-Kuti family, were emphasised by the Commissioner. "We can share our heritage with the world and highlight these pride points thanks to tourism," he continued.

Fagbayi praised the association for organising the forum and said it was essential to encouraging participation and advancing the industry.

Dr. Wasiu Babalola urged local tourism industry professionals to take use of the state's infrastructure improvements in order to draw tourists in his keynote speech, "Tourism and Culture: A Veritable Tool for Economic Growth and Industrial Revolution."

He pointed out that Ogun is positioned as a feasible tourist destination due to its enhanced road systems, security, and landmarks like the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library.

According to Babalola, "Ogun is reasonably safe, with new roads leading to the capital." "What are experts doing to attract tourists to these locations and profit from the government's investments? We have world-class attractions."

In order to completely develop the tourism industry and reap its economic benefits, Dr. Ibraheem Kukoyi, the association's state coordinator, also urged for better cooperation among stakeholders.