Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, represented by her Chief of Staff, Raphael Obi, confirmed the investment during the maiden Destination Nigeria Governors Tourism Conference in Abuja on Friday. She emphasized that the funding is part of a broader strategy to reposition major tourism assets, attract global investors, and diversify the economy beyond oil.
“Obudu Mountain Resort is receiving a significant boost in terms of rehabilitation and development. A private sector investor is building an airport to improve accessibility, and UNIDO is contributing 2.5 megawatts of electricity at an estimated cost of $2.5 million,” Obi said on behalf of the Minister. “The federal government is also putting in N5 billion to resuscitate infrastructure to make the resort world-class.”
The announcement reflects growing confidence in Nigeria’s tourism sector. According to Musawa, several investors are already engaging with the government to gain early entry into upcoming tourism projects. She also highlighted that Detty December, beginning on December 6, will feature a 3.6-kilometre dining table, set to break the current Guinness World Record of 3.5 kilometres.
Harnessing Tourism for Economic Growth
Speaking at the conference on the theme “Harnessing Tourism: A Strategic Pathway for Nigerian Governors to Foster Economic Growth and Employment,” Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Olayiwola Awakan, stressed the sector’s potential to create jobs and attract visitors. He highlighted Nigeria’s cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and creative industries as key drivers of tourism-led economic growth.
Governors were urged to translate tourism opportunities into tangible economic outcomes through effective policy, strategic investment, and partnerships.
Technology as a Catalyst
The role of technology in advancing tourism was underscored by Michael Olaniyi, Senior Manager for Enterprise Business at MTN Northern Region. He emphasized how ICT innovations can boost development, raise awareness, empower youth, and enhance Nigeria’s international image.
Olaniyi noted MTN’s contributions, including secure payment platforms, diaspora payment collections in 12 countries, and leveraging 5G technology for virtual tours, all designed to improve tourism experiences and attract international visitors.
“MTN is committed to supporting stakeholders across sectors to ensure that our environment, people, festivals, and country are seen in a new light,” Olaniyi said.
With these initiatives, Nigeria is signaling a renewed commitment to positioning tourism as a cornerstone of economic growth, creating jobs, and attracting both local and international investment.