Ayodele Olalere
Lagos State government has advocated for the promotion of tourism as a tool to promote peace.
According to the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka who spoke at an event on Friday to mark the 2024 World Tourism Day with the theme ‘Tourism and Peace, held at Muri-Okunola Park, Victoria Island, said beyond economic value, tourism can serve as a bridge for peace, understanding, and unity among people and nations.
She noted that Lagos, being a hub of culture and commerce, understands the importance of tourism in building an inclusive and peaceful society.
“The tourism sector serves as a powerful catalyst for fostering peace. As visitors from around the world explore different lands, meet new people, and experience diverse cultures, they engage in an exchange that promotes mutual respect, tolerance, and friendship. It is this spirit of shared humanity that can turn tourism into an engine for peace and reconciliation, it opens hearts and minds to new ways of thinking, living, and coexisting,” Toke said.
The Commissioner further said Lagos State is committed to promoting tourism not only as an economic driver but also a tool for fostering peace.
She added that the partnership between the state and Sterling Bank will strengthen ‘the narrative of tourism as a path to peace and reconciliation.’
The Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John who was represented by the Special Adviser on Policy, Jibike Teniola, commended Lagos State government and Sterling Bank for partnering to promote tourism as tool for peace.
“Tourism is a bridge between people and culture. Nigeria with over 250 ethnic groups can use tourism to bring unity in diversity. The world through tourism fosters dialogue and collaboration. Tourism break down barriers,” the Minister said.
The Minister called on the Ministry of Education to include tourism and history in the school curriculum.
The Lead Speaker, the Oniru of Iruland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Wasiu Omogbolahan in his paper said tourism can be a powerful catalyst for peace.
“It has the potential to create jobs. Strategic investment in tourism can mitigate poverty and unemployment. Tourism thrives in peaceful environment, it can promote cross-cultural peace. Nigeria is home to vibrant cultural heritage which can attract tourists,” he said
Oba Gbolahan urged the government to invest in education of youths and unlock their potentials.
“We should create a future where tourism serves as tool for peace,” he added.