‘Embrace eco-friendly tourism’ – Tinubu tells African Nations at UN meeting

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has urged African nations to adopt eco-friendly tourism policies and safeguard the continent’s cultural heritage as a path to sustainable economic growth and prosperity.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the opening of the 68th United Nations Tourism Commission for Africa (CAF) meeting in Abuja, Tinubu stressed the need for collaboration among African governments to strengthen tourism infrastructure and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Nigeria encourages other African nations to adopt policies promoting eco-friendly tourism and preserving cultural heritage. Through regional partnerships and shared best practices, we can build a tourism industry that benefits both our people and our environment,” he said.

The President also highlighted Nigeria’s creative industries—including Nollywood, music, and fashion—as major contributors to the nation’s GDP and tools of global cultural influence. He called for stronger public-private partnerships to unlock opportunities within the tourism sector.

Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, emphasized the role of innovation, artificial intelligence (AI), and creative industries in reshaping Africa’s tourism landscape. She said the Renewed Hope Agenda would guide Nigeria’s drive to unlock the continent’s tourism potential.

UN Tourism Secretary-General, Amb. Zurab Pololikashvili, commended Nigeria’s commitment to repositioning tourism as a tool for development and urged African leaders to improve regional connectivity and simplify visa processes to attract more visitors.

Also speaking, Senator Ireti Kingibe said Africa is not just participating in tourism’s digital future but actively shaping it. She called for bold ideas and grassroots innovations to redefine how Africa is experienced globally.

The event brought together top tourism officials, industry leaders, and stakeholders across Africa to chart a course for inclusive, sustainable growth in the sector.