In a passionate call to action, the South West Zonal Director and Curator of the National Museum of Unity, Ibadan, Mrs. Oriyomi Pamela Otuka, has urged policymakers, investors, and stakeholders to remain consistent in efforts to unlock the full economic potential of the tourism sector in Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Second International Tourism Summit held at the University of Ibadan, Otuka highlighted the transformative power of tourism in global economies. Citing countries like Brazil, Seychelles, Italy, the United Kingdom, France, India, and Saudi Arabia, she underscored how strategic investments in heritage, infrastructure, and public-private partnerships have helped those nations turn their cultural assets into economic goldmines.
“Tourism is not merely about sightseeing; it’s an economy of culture, a celebration of identity, and a catalyst for employment and investment,” Otuka said. “But this doesn’t happen overnight. It takes unwavering consistency, collaborative synergy, and a deep respect for historical continuity.”
The seasoned curator praised the strides made in Oyo State’s tourism sector under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, noting particularly the impactful reforms and initiatives of the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun. According to her, the state has witnessed renewed enthusiasm and tangible growth in cultural programming, historical site maintenance, and tourism marketing in the past two years.
Otuka emphasised that maintaining momentum is key to achieving long-term success. “Governor Makinde’s administration has planted strong seeds. The next step is to keep watering them—through consistent funding, strategic planning, and engaging the private sector in building cultural experiences that reflect who we are.”
The summit, which gathered cultural experts, tourism investors, and government representatives, served as a think-tank for reimagining Nigeria’s tourism landscape. Discussions centered on harnessing indigenous knowledge systems, leveraging digital technology, and repositioning local museums and heritage sites as viable tourist destinations.
Mrs. Otuka reiterated the museum’s readiness to collaborate with stakeholders in documenting, preserving, and promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural tapestry.
“This is a clarion call,” she said. “Nigeria’s tourism potential is immense, but the key that unlocks it is consistency—rooted in policy, passion, and purposeful partnerships.”
