- NiDCOM, NTDA Unveil Plans to Boost Tourism Through Diaspora Engagement
- NTDA Unveils Naija Fest, UK Diaspora Internship Initiative
- Awakan expressed confidence that stronger collaboration with the diaspora and tourism stakeholders would boost investment, create jobs and contribute to national development
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) have reaffirmed their commitment to promoting tourism, attracting investment and strengthening Nigeria’s global image through closer collaboration and greater engagement with Nigerians in the diaspora.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NiDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, made this known during a meeting with the Director-General of NTDA, Olayiwola Awakan, in Abuja.
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Dabiri-Erewa said the commission remains committed to partnerships that promote national development by showcasing Nigeria’s tourism potential, expanding investment opportunities and harnessing the contributions of Nigerians living abroad.
She called for the rebranding of tourism attractions across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, while encouraging domestic tourism through initiatives such as the Badagry Door of Return Festival.
Describing the festival as a significant cultural and historical experience, she said it offers visitors, particularly those of African descent, a deeper understanding of their heritage.
“It is a spiritual, emotional, psychological, economic and historical experience. It cuts deep into their psyche as many shed tears as they passed through the slave routes,” she said.
Dabiri-Erewa also urged the tourism agency to continue building strategic partnerships, stressing that Nigerians must take ownership of the country’s narrative by projecting a more positive image to the international community.
In his remarks, Awakan said Nigeria is richly endowed with tourism assets and pledged to reposition the sector to meet global standards.
He listed key priorities to include improving tour guide systems, upgrading tourism sites, promoting tourism expos, encouraging private sector investment and developing attractive tour packages.
Awakan expressed confidence that stronger collaboration with the diaspora and tourism stakeholders would boost investment, create jobs and contribute to national development.
He noted that despite Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, entertainment industry and tourism offerings, negative perceptions continue to overshadow the country’s strengths.
“There is a need to project a more positive image of Nigeria, especially through those in the diaspora who are our first-line ambassadors,” he said.
The NTDA Director-General also announced plans to launch Naija Fest, a national cultural festival that will showcase the cuisine, music, arts, traditions and cultural heritage of all 36 states and the FCT.
He further disclosed plans for a United Kingdom-based diaspora internship initiative that will enable Nigerians living abroad to undertake a nine-month internship in Nigeria before returning to their countries of residence with enhanced professional and cultural experience.
Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to leveraging the Nigerian diaspora as strategic partners in promoting tourism, strengthening the country’s international reputation and driving sustainable economic development.
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