Nigeria’s 10th 7 Wonders Expo: Minister calls for community engagement, training for preservation, promotion of cultural, natural treasures
Nigeria boasts a wealth of cultural treasures, spanning centuries of diverse civilisations; from ancient kingdoms to colonial legacies, each tells a story of resilience, creativity, and heritage.
However, many of these treasures have been left unattended to or remain tucked away in national museums, waiting to be unearthed by curious travellers.
Recognising the untapped potential of these repositories, government officials and tourism stakeholders are charting a new course to harness Nigeria’s natural and cultural treasures as tour destinations.
At the 10th edition of the Seven Wonders of Nigeria Expo held at the National Museum, Onikan in Lagos State, the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John canvassed for preservation and promotion of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty through community engagement, training on tourism skills, entrepreneurship and cultural respect, among other collective measures.
Addressing esteemed guests and visitors from around the world, the Minister expressed immense pride in showcasing the diversity and splendor of Nigeria.
She emphasised Nigeria’s status as a country blessed with abundant natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, from breathtaking landscapes to vibrant cities and warm hospitality.
The Minister highlighted the importance of the expo in promoting Nigeria as a world-class tourism destination and celebrated the resilience and creativity of the Nigerian people showcased through the wonders on display.
“Each wonder,” she noted, “tells a story – a story of ingenuity, perseverance and the enduring spirit of Nigeria.”
A key focus of the Minister’s address was the importance of preserving and protecting Nigeria’s treasures for future generations.
In doing so, Ade-John outlined her ‘Doctrine According to Tourism,’ which seeks to empower communities to contribute to the country’s revenue diversity plan, aligned with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
She urged the promotion of responsible tourism practices to showcase Nigeria as a wholesome destination.
“As the Minister of Tourism, I am privileged to witness firsthand the incredible natural and cultural treasures that grace our land.
“From the bustling streets of Lagos to the serene waters of the Niger Delta, Nigeria is a country filled with wonders waiting to be explored.
“As we celebrate the 10th edition of this expo, let us not only marvel at the wonders before us but also reflect on the importance of preserving and protecting them for future generations.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that these treasures remain intact for years to come so that others may experience the same sense of awe and wonder that we feel today.
“In order to achieve this, we must carry along our people. Community engagement is vital to the preservation of our assets and history.
“We must engage our local communities and train them on basic tourism skills, entrepreneurship, hospitality, cleanliness as well as love and respect for cultural differences.
This approach embodies what I call the ‘Doctrine According to Tourism.’
“It will empower and encourage our people to contribute to the country’s revenue diversity plan as the President emphasises in His Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Let us continue to promote responsible tourism and preserve our treasures,” the Minister said.
The Minister expressed gratitude to the organisers, exhibitors, and everyone involved in making the event a reality.
She reiterated the importance of cherishing Nigeria’s national treasures as testament to its beauty and diversity.
The 10th Seven Wonders of Nigeria Expo provided an opportunity for exploration, experience, and amazement, as attendees immersed themselves in the rich tapestry of Nigeria’s cultural and natural wonders.
