17th November, 2016
Mr Ukeka Orji, a renowned Artist and proprietor of Kaka Art Inspirations, has attributed poor patronage and lack of peace and unity to the collapse of the tourism industry in the country.
Orji said on Thursday in Abuja, that tourism sites, zoological garden and amusement parks in the country had little or no patronage.
“There are lots of tourist sites, zoological gardens and parks that are meant for people to visit, relax and have some fun; unfortunately, they are all not enjoying patronage.
“Amusement parks and the zoo, zoological gardens used to be the destination for tourists from within and outside the country, but not anymore; our people seem to have forgotten the value of relaxation.
“Low patronage, hinged on insecurity has made it difficult for tourism business to thrive and for the operators to make returns on their investment. No one wants to go to a place where there is no security.
“In many developed countries, there are organisations that specialise in the conservation of the zoo, animals, zoological gardens and forests; those countries earn a lot of foreign exchange from tourism.”
He said that the situation in Nigeria was different and called on all stakeholders to revive the tourism sector for the benefit of all.
“A lot of jobs and revenue have been lost due to the collapse of the industry. Our youths should be encouraged to take up arts and crafts, especially now that the economy is in recession.
“There is an intricate connection between crime and idleness; I believe insecurity can be tackled if the youths channel their energy to areas of advantage such as the creative industries or even sports.
“I also believe that tourism has the potential to improve the country’s foreign exchange, if properly harnessed,” he said.
Orji called on government at all levels to, as a matter of urgency, improve security in the country in order to boost small businesses.
He also urged the security agencies to put measures in place to guarantee a hitch-free yuletide in 2016.