TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AND THE NEW NIGERIAN GOVERNMENT

Political stability is an essential factor for the development of tourism in any country. If an election is conducted peacefully and the result is accepted by all parties, it can create a stable political environment that can attract tourists to the country.

In Nigeria, where tourism is still relatively undeveloped compared to other African countries, any political instability can have a significant impact on the industry's growth. However, if the just-concluded general elections in Nigeria are widely accepted, it could create a stable political environment that can boost tourism development in the country.

The newly elected government must recognize tourism as an economic goldmine for the country and create policies and initiatives that support tourism growth, such as infrastructure development and marketing campaigns to attract more tourists.

Consecutive governments have made the mistake of relegating Nigerian tourism to the sidelines of economic growth, focusing their plans and ideas on petroleum, agriculture, and mining. While these are immensely profitable ventures that the government must invest in, it is unfortunate that tourism, despite our immeasurable potential, is never considered with as much spirit.

There are many ways that the newly elected government can promote tourism development in Nigeria. Here are some suggestions:

1. Create a tourism board or agency: The government can establish a dedicated tourism board or agency responsible for promoting the country's attractions and coordinating efforts to attract visitors. We already have this, but their activities need to be beefed up and their voice heard on the policy making table.
2. Invest in infrastructure: The Nigerian Government can improve existing infrastructure especially our roads, tourist sites, and public transportation to make it easier for tourists to travel around the country. As of now, our best tourist attractions are on the other side of a near impossible journey through bad roads and poor transportation infrastructure.
3. Offer tax incentives: Government can offer tax incentives to tourism-related businesses, such as hotels and restaurants, to encourage investment in the industry.
4. Develop tourism packages and promotions: The newly elected Government can work with travel agencies and tour operators to develop attractive government-approved tourism packages and promotions to encourage people to visit the country. The involvement of the government in tourism activities generally improves the credibility of that package to visitors who might want to participate.
5. Protect and promote cultural heritage: Our historical sites lie in neglect and disrepair in many parts of the country. These structures cannot be rebuilt if they fall because it will negate the historical relevance of them. They have to be maintained, preserved and kept in the best possible condition for tourists. The government must protect and promote our cultural heritage by preserving historical sites, promoting cultural events, and supporting local artists and craftspeople. This cannot be overemphasized.
6. Enhance security and safety: There is no tourism without security. The first step to tourism growth in Nigeria is a secure environment for it to thrive. The next government must enhance security and safety measures to ensure that tourists feel safe while visiting the country.
7. Foster cooperation with other countries: the Government can foster cooperation with neighboring countries to promote tourism and share best practices in tourism development.

Overall, promoting tourism development requires a multi-faceted approach that involves investment, promotion, and coordination among various stakeholders. And the newly elected government of Nigeria must understand that tourism has a strong part to play in our economic development. And take it seriously.