The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, gave
this advice on Monday in Birnin-Kebbi at the 2021 World Tourism Day
celebrations.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the 2021 World
Tourism Day with the theme "Tourism for Inclusive Growth" is hosted
in Birnin-Kebbi by Kebbi state Government and the Ministry.
While addressing a joint news conference with Kebbi State
Deputy Governor Samaila Dabai, the minister said if harnessed, the tourism
sector could transform the economy of many states and ensure gender equality.
He said the states should take a cue from Kebbi which had a
lot to offer the world and a lot of stories to tell in tourism development.
"This is well demonstrated in Kebbi State, given the
fact that the tourism sector in the state revolves around components such as
culture, agriculture and sports, among others.
"In the areas of culture and sports, the annual Argungu
International Fishing festival, the Durbar, traditional wrestling and camel
racing, among others, have over the years proven to be viable sources of
economic growth.
They have also contributed in the area of job creation and
empowerment, especially for the women and youth.
"Kebbi State is known for its industrial growth,
especially in the areas of rice mills and tomato factories which employ a lot
of women as farm staff (80 per cent), out growers (30 per cent) and factory
staff (10 per cent).
"All these underscore the state's efforts and capacity
to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals," he said.
The minister commended Kebbi state Governor Abubakar Bagudu
for his commitment to tourism development. (NAN)