The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, (NiDCOM ) and the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) are strategizing to partner for the development of tourism in Nigeria.
Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, NiDCOM has stated that the Commission is committed to partnerships that work and contribute to National Development through the promotion of tourism assets, strengthening Nigeria's international image, investment and Diaspora Engagement.
Dabiri-Erewa spoke in Abuja during a strategic meeting with Dr Olayiwola Awakan, Director General, Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA).
The NIDCOM Boss expressed appreciation for the courtesy visit and underscored the importance of rebranding of Nigeria's Tourism Assets across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT), there by encouraging domestic tourism latching on the Badagry Door of Return Festival where Historic African Diasporas return to their homeland as King's and Queens,
In a statement by Violet Nwosu of the Media, Public Relations and Protocols Department, NiDCOM, she said "It is a spiritual, emotional, psychological, economic and historical experience", it
cuts deep into their psychic as many shed tears as they passed through the slave routes"
Dabiri-Erewa further encouraged NTDA to continue building strategic partnerships stressing the importance of Nigerians taking ownership of their National Narrative by telling their own stories and projecting positive image of the country globally.
The Director General , Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Dr Olayiwola Awakan, explained that Nigeria is blessed with abundant Tourism Assets and he is committed to rebranding these assets to meet global standards. Key among them include: Tour guides system and image, upgrading assets and making them more attractive, tourism expo, private sector involvement, tour packages and bureau, among others.
Dr Awakan believed that strategic engagement with the Diaspora Communities and tourism enthusiasts will surely promote investment, create employment and reduce social tensions in the country.
The NTDA Director General also observed that although Nigeria hosts numerous cultural entertainment and tourism events, the country's international image is often overshadowed by negative narratives, stressing the need to project a more positive of Nigeria especially those in the Diaspora who are our first line ambassadors.
He added that NTDA plans to introduce NAIJA FEST, a proposed National Festival that will showcase the unique culture, cuisine, music, arts and traditions of all the 36 states and FCT.
He said that a proposed Diaspora Internship Initiative in the UK is being mounted through which Nigerians in the Diaspora would be given the opportunity to undertake a nine-month internship in Nigeria before returning to their countries of residence with valuable professional and cultural experience that will last.
"The strategic Meeting provided an opportunity for both NiDCOM and NTDA to reaffirm their commitment to promoting tourism, strengthening Nigeria's international image, encouraging investment and leveraging the Nigeria Diaspora as strategic partners in National Development." the statement stated