As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to celebrate World Tourism Day with the theme ‘Tourism for Peace’, an ex-Miss Tourism, Dr. Ogenna Walter Ekwubiri has advocated for the use of tourism potentials to lead the progress in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In a statement she signed in commemoration of World Tourism Day, Ekwubiri highlighted the vital role tourism plays in fostering harmony, unity, and sustainable growth.
The ex-beauty queen, who is also the founder of the Motivating African Youths Initiative, said in a culturally rich and diverse nation like Nigeria, tourism serves as a bridge that connects heritage, promotes understanding, and nurtures peaceful coexistence.
“Tourism transcends borders, breaking down barriers of language, religion, and ethnicity. It is a key driver for peace and a pillar of development. Aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), tourism fosters inclusion, cultural exchange, and economic empowerment.
“Nigeria is blessed with breathtaking landscapes and diverse cultures, yet our tourism sector remains largely untapped. If harnessed effectively, tourism can boost our economy, provide jobs, and strengthen national unity—directly supporting SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
“By preserving our natural and cultural assets through sustainable tourism, we can also advance SDG 13 (Climate Action).
“I call on public and private stakeholders to prioritise tourism as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s national development strategy. Together, we can harness the power of tourism to achieve peace, sustainability, and a prosperous future for all,” she added.
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