October 31, (THEWILL) – The recent dissolution of Nigeria’s standalone Ministry of Tourism and its merger with the Ministry of Creative Economy and Arts & Culture has sparked concerns among tourism stakeholders.
Many fear that blending tourism with the arts and creative economy could dilute the sector’s focus, impacting critical areas such as funding, policy direction and long-term planning.
Mr Awomoyi Ayodeji, Chief Executive Officer of Flyzone Tourism, acknowledged Ade-John’s contributions, including reviving the Presidential Tourism Council and launching digital tourism tools. However, he expressed concern that the merger may lead to a distracted focus, with tourism potentially side-lined in favour of creative economy initiatives.
Travel Journalist, Victor Nze, criticised the government’s approach, stating that former Minister, Lola Ade-John, faced significant structural challenges, from delayed start-up funding to outdated legislative support. Nze undoubtedly noted that merging the ministry bypasses these deeper issues, reflecting a lack of commitment to tourism.
Veteran tourism developer, Prince Ade Ajayi, echoed these worries, pointing to tourism’s “identity crisis” within Nigeria’s governance. Ajayi advocated for separating tourism from arts and culture to maintain clarity, citing his “World Indian Carnival” project as an example of the innovative initiatives needed to fully leverage Nigeria’s tourism potential.
The New Telegraph Travel Editor, Mr Andrew Okungbowa, added that the merger ignored longstanding challenges within the sector, dismissing Ade-John without addressing the underlying lack of government support. He called for unity among tourism advocates to push for focused leadership and a dedicated strategy for the sector.
Nonetheless, as the government redefines tourism policy, stakeholders urge clear, sector-specific strategies to ensure tourism’s unique needs are met and its potential realised as a key driver of economic growth.
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
