By Ademola Orubon, Abeokuta
The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has said that efforts are in top gear to harness the tourism sector towards successful implementation of his “Building Our Future Together” agenda.
The Governor made this known during the celebration of the 42nd edition of World Tourism Day, with the theme: “Tourism and Jobs: A Better Future for All,” held at June 12, Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.
Represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the governor said since the inception of his administration the government has continued to put in place structures to support tourist activities in the state.
He said the various artefacts, historic sites, and tourist centres have continued to contribute immensely to the economy of the State, and generate thousands of jobs.
He added that his administration was committed to developing all sectors of the economy and support all enterprises that have positive impact on the socio-economy of the state, saying that tourism was an imperative pillar of good governance.
“Arrangements are in top gear for a partnership between our State and a special purpose vehicle organisation of banker’s, to establish an entertainment village which would be the first of its kind in the whole of Africa in the State,” Abiodun said
Wife of the governor and the Special Guest of Honour, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun said tourism needs to be given a special priority, being a source of revenue in the country and a means of employment generation. She enjoined youths to key into job opportunities inherent in the tourism sector.
Chairman, House Committee on Information, Culture and Tourism, Hon Yusuff Adejojo disclosed that the State and Nigeria is endowed with numerous tourism potentials, noting that if given much attention and prominence, it would go a long way in tackling the problem of unemployment in the State and country.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Culture and Tourism , Alhaja Selimot Ottun, stated that the essence of the World Tourism Day was to support changes in policy, business practices and tourism behavior towards attaining a more sustainable tourism and hospitality sector.
She added that the role of tourism in job was often undervalued irrespective of the fact that it generates 10 percent of world jobs as included in sustainable goal for it’s potential to create decent jobs.