The Federal Government has revealed that it has spent $9 billion on infrastructural projects since the commencement of President Buhari’s administration in 2015.
This was made known by the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, during a press briefing towards the preparation for the 61st Meeting of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation Commission for Africa (UNWTO-CAF) in Abuja.
According to the Minister, such infrastructure would also foster tourism and development.
The event which will start on June 4 and end June 6 is titled ”Tourism Statistics: A Catalyst for Development.”
The Minister noted that the treasures of tourism cannot be unlocked without infrastructure.
“tourism cannot die in Nigeria due to diverse culture and ethnicity. Also, tourism is the fastest way to create jobs”.
“We are a country 180 million plus with over 250 different ethnic groups and each group has its own peculiarity, story and uniqueness. Therefore tourism will continue to thrive. Tourism will survive where there is the right infrastructure,” Mohammed said.
The Minister said Nigeria would use the opportunity offered by the meeting to tell the world that Nigeria is safe and secure for its citizens, tourists and investors.
“As at today, we have confirmation from 166 foreign delegates; 26 ministers and 332 Nigerian delegates, excluding the press will be attending while waiting for other delegates,” he said.
He said all the elements that are needed to promote tourism are embedded in Nigeria, adding that the theme of the meeting fits into Nigeria’s quest to improve on tourism statistics.
Speaking further, he added that Nigeria’s ranking as the 24th on the ease of doing business index globally, especially with the visa processes which has been made easier for investors, has attracted investors to the country.
