Tour Nigeria is a tourism brand launched by the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) in 2017. The initiative aims to promote Nigeria as a destination for tourism, hospitality, arts, and entertainment within Africa. By focusing on domestic tourism, Tour Nigeria seeks to drive the consumption of local tourism assets and products, ultimately contributing to the country's economy. This article delves into the objectives and impact of the Tour Nigeria initiative.
Objectives of Tour Nigeria
The primary objective of Tour Nigeria is to boost domestic tourism by encouraging Nigerians to explore their own country. The initiative aims to create new channels for tourism markets, increase employment opportunities, and enhance spending within the Nigerian economy. By promoting domestic tourism, Tour Nigeria seeks to add to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and foster a sense of national pride among Nigerians.
To achieve these goals, Tour Nigeria has implemented a five-point action plan known as CHIEF. This plan focuses on Corporate Governance and Regulations, Human Capital Development, Infrastructure Development, Events and Marketing, and Finance and Investment. By addressing these key areas, Tour Nigeria aims to create a sustainable and thriving tourism industry in Nigeria.
Promoting Nigerian Flavors
One of the sub-brands under Tour Nigeria is Nigerian Flavors, which actively promotes the consumption of Nigerian cuisine. Launched in 2018, Nigerian Flavors aims to showcase the rich culinary diversity of the country, attracting both locals and tourists to experience the unique flavors of Nigerian dishes.
The Nigerian Flavors events feature a variety of activities, including musical performances, comedy shows, and merchandising opportunities for arts, crafts, and fashion. These events not only highlight the culinary offerings of Nigeria but also provide a platform for local artists and entrepreneurs to showcase their talents and products. By promoting culinary tourism, Nigerian Flavors contributes to the overall success of the Tour Nigeria initiative.
Impact on Domestic Tourism
Since its launch, Tour Nigeria has made significant strides in promoting domestic tourism. By highlighting the diverse attractions and experiences available within the country, the initiative has encouraged more Nigerians to explore their own backyard. This increased interest in domestic tourism has led to a rise in local travel, benefiting various sectors of the economy, including hospitality, transportation, and retail.
Tour Nigeria has also played a role in changing perceptions about tourism in Nigeria. By showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, the initiative has helped to dispel negative stereotypes and promote a positive image of Nigeria as a tourist destination. As a result, more Nigerians are choosing to travel within their own country, contributing to the growth and development of the domestic tourism industry.
In conclusion, Tour Nigeria has successfully promoted domestic tourism by encouraging Nigerians to explore their own country and experience its diverse attractions. Through initiatives like Nigerian Flavors and the CHIEF action plan, Tour Nigeria continues to make a positive impact on the Nigerian economy and the tourism industry as a whole.
