Bisola David
The Imo State Government has made public its plans to use tourism to grow the state’s economy.
The Punch reported that the state commissioner for tourism, Jerry Egemba, reaffirmed the commitment of the government to the development of tourism in the state and its openness to welcome investors in the sector during a webinar on Saturday titled “Opportunities in tourism in Imo State,” which was organized by the chief economic adviser to the state government, Prof Kenneth Amaeshi,
Imo has a long history of being a hub for tourism, according to Egemba.
He discussed how the growth of hotel businesses was a result of tourism helping the state’s hospitality industry, and how additional investments in the industry would create job possibilities for young people among other locals.
Speaking of investments, he remarked, “We’re working on making the Nworie River a major tourist destination.
The commissioner predicted that many Imo natives would return home to see exciting tourist attractions since, as he pointed out, this was already occurring.
Another panelist, Osiagwu Chikezie mentioned “attractions, activities, facilities, lodging and accessibility” as crucial elements to boosting tourism.
Transportation, which is a crucial element that complements tourism by determining accessibility and employment opportunities, was also mentioned during the webinar.
Other panelists included Head of Branding and Standardization at the Niger Delta Development Commission, Clara Braide, Igbo Queen, General Manager of the Owerri branch of the Uchemec Group of Companies, and the CEO of Creative Niger Radio, Frank Meke.
