FTAN President Says No One Should Be Left Behind

As Nigeria joins the rest of the Tourism World to celebrate the United Nations World Tourism Day, President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN),  Mr  Nkerewuem onung says the new normal has revealed the need for strategic action plan which must bring tourism stakeholders together and create projects that will be of benefit for all.

Nkerewuem who spoke at the sidelines of the event, which is hosted by Kebbi state government in collaboration with National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), noted that the Federation under his watch would work with the Federal government to ensure that industry operators and investors are not left behind in the focal agenda to reinvent the wheel of tourism business in Nigeria.

In his word: " We are determined to bring something new to the table and also mindful of the fact, that the Ministry of Tourism and its ten agencies are pivotal to FTAN dreams, to ensure no industry player or viable cultural tourism projects are left behind or allowed to  fallow'" he further explained.

He reiterated that the government must help the industry back to its feet and wondered why the palliatives promised the industry associations and players are yet to materialize. Adding to that, he said that thegovernment must through such intervention,  prove that it cares and also appreciates the critical presence and job creating values of the avant garde cultural tourism industry.

" I must commend the resilience and doggedness of the private sector for the rebound  of the sector after the COVID-19  regulations ambushed its growth  and also without help anywhere, with unforgettable  lessons learnt that time has come for us.  Government and the private sector should work together and not leave anyone behind"  Nkerewuem said.

FTAN President further offered insight on the significance of celebrating  the United Nations World Tourism Day With the Theme; All inclusive Tourism"

Also Speaking at the Kebbi state sponsored outing, aided by NIHOTOUR,  Mr Nkerewuem Onung praised the state government for taking up the financial burden to give Nigeria a podium to celebrate the global festivity, thereby showcasing the rich Cultural  and agro tourism economy of Kebbi state noted for its rice pyramid.

" Tourism industry has the capacity to sell the rice paddie fields of kebbi to the world and also create tour jobs, and opportunities for recreation, and hospitality diversities to thrive and grow into a new economy. Yes, we may have security challenges but it has been  proven that if the government and the private joined hands together, refreshing narratives about our country, our people and culture can help douse sociopolitical tension which is fueling individualism and insecurity"  FTAN President stated.

He appreciated the  Emir of Kebbi and the state government for the investiture of Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information and Culture as the kakaki of kebbi, adding that the traditional and Cultural title bestowed on the Minister was well deserving, an affirmation that Alhaji Lai Mohammed has done well.

" FTAN rejoices with our Minister. He has done well and maybe after this outing, he will put more energy towards getting the industry the palliatives the federal government promised us. We proud are at ftan and look forward to working closely with the Ministry to get everyone, far and near to give Nigerian Cultural tourism the milage expected of its diversity, he said.