Recession: Ambode, Mohammed Call For Concerted Efforts
The duo spoke at the National Tourism Conference held at Eko Atlantic City (EAC) in Lagos in commemoration of the World Tourism Day.
According to Ambode the realities of the current economic recession could be a blessing if concerted efforts are geared toward harnessing other critical sectors such as tourism apart from the major focus on oil.
He said the current economic situation offered an opportunity for the country to re-order economic priorities and develop other revenue generating channels.
The governor said the conference, which was organized by the Federal Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, was a necessary and strategic decision that would enhance the prospects of diversifying the revenue generation channels of the country for the development and growth of the national economy.
Ambode, who was represented by the deputy governor, Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule, said there are component states blessed with natural tourism sites which could be developed to harness opportunities that would generate wealth and create jobs for the people.
He pointed out that a recent study by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) projected that the travel and tourism industry in Nigeria would contribute 1.6 per cent directly to the Gross Domestic product (GDP) of the country by 2024 which in absolute terms represented N1.366billion, and 1,194,000 direct employment, and advocated the development of framework for the industry, especially the creation of incentives for investors.
“The potentials of this sector can only be harnessed if we create the right environment for investment to thrive. We must open up the sector through incentives, attractive policies as well as the provision of world class infrastructure,” he said.
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