Vice President Kashim Shettima has stated that tourism not only holds substantial economic value but also plays a vital role in stimulating local entrepreneurship and empowering communities. He made this known on Wednesday during the 68th United Nations Tourism Commission for Africa meeting held in Abuja.
The high-level event, co-hosted by the Nigerian government and the UN Tourism body, gathered key stakeholders from across the continent to chart new strategies for leveraging tourism as a driver of sustainable development. Opening the session on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Shettima called for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors to grow the industry.
“As we chart a new course for tourism in Africa, one thing is sure — the government cannot build the sector alone. It needs a partnership with the private sector,” he said.
Shettima also noted the transformative effect of technology on the tourism ecosystem, highlighting how innovation is expanding access and deepening entrepreneurship at the grassroots level.
“Technology has reshaped tourism and the opportunities it presents. Beyond economic gains, tourism can enhance local entrepreneurship and community progress,” he added.
Also addressing the gathering, Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to shifting away from dependency on natural resources toward a future anchored in human potential.
“The 21st century demands we build economies not just from the ground, but from the soul,” Musawa said. “Here in Nigeria, we are making that shift — embracing tourism, culture, and the creative industries as engines of people-powered prosperity.”
This year’s theme — “Boosting Social Impact and Education on Tourism through AI, Innovation and Creative Industries” — reflects a shared vision for harnessing culture, technology, and creativity to shape a more inclusive and prosperous African future.
