Tourism experts and hoteliers are calling on government bodies and private investors to seize the economic promise within Kwara State’s growing hospitality sector, citing the region’s peace, cultural richness, and strategic location as catalysts for major financial inflows.
At a press briefing ahead of the 2025 Hospitality Impact and Tourism Conference (HITC 2.0), the event’s convener, Folashade Folayan, challenged both national and international stakeholders to reshape how Nigeria’s North Central region is perceived — from a zone often overshadowed by insecurity concerns to one brimming with opportunity and stability.
“The narrative needs to shift,” Folayan stated. “The North Central region is not just safe — it’s a symbol of diversity, culture, and hospitality waiting to be showcased to the world.”
She emphasized that Kwara State exemplifies this transformation, serving as a model for peace and cultural harmony while offering vast untapped tourism potential. The decision to host the second edition of HITC in Ilorin, she explained, reflects the intent to decentralize Nigeria’s tourism dialogue and prove that meaningful growth can thrive beyond Lagos and Abuja.
“Tourism remains one of the world’s most resilient industries,” she added. “For Nigeria, it represents more than leisure — it’s a pathway to jobs, entrepreneurship, and renewed hope for inclusive development.”
The upcoming conference, themed “Tourism Transformed: Empowering People, Shaping Policy, Driving Prosperity,” is scheduled for Sunday, December 7, 2025. It aims to unite policymakers, industry professionals, investors, and creatives under one national platform to reimagine how hospitality and tourism can drive sustainable economic expansion.
According to Folayan, the event will spotlight Kwara’s cultural heritage, encourage youth involvement in hospitality careers, and create stronger partnerships between public and private sectors. It will also provide visibility for local businesses while drawing the attention of global investors to Nigeria’s underexplored destinations.
“This isn’t just a gathering — it’s a movement to make tourism a national growth engine,” she said. “HITC 2.0 focuses on practical solutions, collaborative policymaking, and authentic storytelling that connects Nigeria’s local excellence to a global audience.”
Through these efforts, the conference hopes to redefine Nigeria’s image abroad — from a destination of challenges to one of creativity, resilience, and world-class potential.
