Tourism as Nigeria’s Untapped Goldmine – Aare Gani Adams
The Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has called on the federal and state governments to prioritize the development of Nigeria’s tourism sector, stating that it holds the key to economic diversification, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings.
Adams made the appeal during the 2025 Olumo Festival, held as part of the annual Lisabi Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where he emphasized that Nigeria is losing billions in potential revenue due to government neglect of the sector.
Tourism: A Sustainable Alternative to Mineral Resources
Adams argued that while mineral resources are finite, tourism remains an everlasting economic asset if properly harnessed.
"Tourism is gold you cannot exhaust. Nations like Thailand and the UK attract 40 million and 35 million tourists yearly, respectively, generating billions in foreign exchange. Nigeria must shift focus from oil and minerals to tourism to revive its economy," he stated.
He lamented that despite Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and natural attractions, successive governments have paid only lip service to developing the sector, missing out on huge revenue opportunities.
Olumo Rock: A Global Tourism Destination in Waiting
Speaking on the potential of the Olumo Festival, Adams described Olumo Rock as a world-class tourism site capable of attracting international visitors if properly developed.
"Olumo Festival is not just a cultural event; it’s a heritage with global appeal. If well-packaged, it can place Abeokuta on the world tourism map," he said.
He projected that the 2025 Lisabi Festival would inject N10 billion into the economy through direct and indirect revenue, benefiting small businesses and boosting local commerce.
Security and Youth Engagement Critical for Tourism Growth
Adams linked Nigeria’s tourism struggles to insecurity and poor orientation, urging the government to create a safer environment and reorient youths on the economic benefits of the sector.
"Insecurity scares tourists. If we provide safety and educate our youth on tourism’s value, Nigeria can reduce unemployment and curb social vices damaging our international image," he noted.
Call to Action for Egba Sons and Daughters
The Yoruba leader called on indigenes of Egbaland, both at home and abroad, to support efforts to develop the festival into a major revenue-generating venture.
"We must sustain the legacy of Lisabi and Olumo Festival. I urge all stakeholders, including our traditional leaders, to drive investments into Egbaland’s tourism potential," he appealed.
Adams’ push aligns with global trends where nations leverage tourism for economic resilience. With proper investment, Nigeria’s festivals and heritage sites could rival global attractions, creating jobs and stabilizing the economy.
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