The Nigeria Sustainable Tourism Transformation Agenda (NSITA) has been launched during the 45th World Tourism Day, celebrated at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja recently, as the Federal Government announced a new framework to make tourism a driver of jobs, sustainability, and cultural pride.
The plan which was presented by Dr Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, on behalf of Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa, views Tourism as an untapped opportunity in Nigeria, despite its rich cultural heritage and natural attractions.
Thus- The new agenda aims to change that by focusing on sustainability, community participation, digital innovation, and global branding.
Minister Musawa declared:
“Our culture is a living, breathing museum. Our biodiversity is a treasure for the world. Our creative energy is a magnet already capturing global imagination. The time for secrecy is over, the time for sustainable transformation is now”, she said.
She added further that, “The strategy is built on four pillars:
Green certification: hotels and tour operators will be required to adopt energy efficiency standards.
Community-led tourism: revenues are expected to remain with local hosts, backed by a new Tourism Development Fund.
Conservation and digital tools: including digital heritage archives and smart-park technology.
Rebranding: promoting authentic Nigerian travel experiences through young digital storytellers”, she added.
According to the ministry, progress is underway, while pointing to 42 students at Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, who have received scholarships in tourism studies.
Professor Mathew Adamu, the Acting Vice Chancellor who welcomed the support, said “it would produce globally competitive graduates and strengthen Nigeria’s tourism workforce”.
Guest speaker A.M. Sheriff, Vice President of the Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria, described tourism as “a transformative tool for nation-building, job creation, and peace”.
Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy, highlighted upcoming partnerships as China and Nigeria mark 55 years of diplomatic ties in 2026.
Senator Pam Mwadkon Dachungyang, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tourism, called for revenues to remain in host communities, stressing that local empowerment is key to preserving heritage.
The Director-General of NIHOTOUR, represented by Dr Edwin Enenta, pledged to expand digital certifications and green skills training, embedding sustainability into every stage of service delivery.
Minister Musawa closed the with a national call to action:
“Tourism is not just about destinations, it is about destinies. Let us build a Nigeria where every journey creates jobs, every attraction preserves heritage, and every visitor leaves with a story of sustainability and hope.”
The initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, positioning tourism as both an economic catalyst and a global showcase for Nigeria’s culture.
