Speaking at the 5th Annual General Meeting of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) in Lagos over the weekend, Onyema said Nigeria possesses numerous tourism assets that remain underdeveloped because they have not received sufficient attention or promotion.
He urged stakeholders in the tourism industry to take a leading role in changing the global perception of Nigeria by highlighting the country's rich cultural festivals, historical sites and unique traditions.
"Nigeria should be intentional in promoting its tourist attractions to the world. In the North we have Durbar festival, which is growing in popularity. It should be promoted. When they do carnival in the Caribbean, all of us will be running to go to the Caribbean for carnival. Calabar Carnival and Durbar festival are so beautiful to watch," Onyema said.
He argued that Nigeria's traditional institutions and cultural practices also have the potential to become major tourist attractions capable of drawing international visitors.
"Foreigners will pay to come and watch how the Emirs and ministers carry out traditional administration of justice in their domain. People will be willing to pay to go to those palaces to see them and watch culture being exhibited," he added.
The Air Peace boss also expressed concern over what he described as the persistent negative portrayal of Nigeria, saying it discourages tourists, investors and international business partners from visiting the country.
While acknowledging that insecurity remains a challenge, Onyema argued that continuously projecting Nigeria as an unsafe destination undermines efforts to grow the tourism sector and weakens investor confidence.
According to him, the country's image abroad has created anxiety among foreign aviation professionals travelling to Nigeria, with some requesting additional security arrangements before accepting assignments.
"Let me shock you, insecurity is business for some people. Check out the foreign airlines that are coming to this country. Ordinary cabin crew for these foreign airlines are being escorted by security because they are told, they will be kidnapped. When we bring in pilots and certain technicians or engineers from abroad, they start asking us, 'where is your security?' Who will be taking them?" he said.
Onyema urged Nigerians to become ambassadors for the country by promoting its strengths instead of focusing solely on its challenges, arguing that a more positive national image would support economic growth, increase tourism and attract greater investment.
He also commended the Federal Government's Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, describing it as a strategic investment that could transform Nigeria's tourism industry by improving transportation links and opening up coastal destinations to both domestic and international travellers.
According to Onyema, improved connectivity through infrastructure development will create employment opportunities, stimulate local economies and make it easier for visitors to explore Nigeria's diverse tourism attractions.