By Ify Onyekwere
World Tourism Day emerges as a beacon of celebration and reflection in a world interconnected by a thirst for exploration. This annual observance, marked on September 27th, serves as a moment to recognize the profound impact of travel on the global community. Beyond the exotic landscapes and cultural encounters, tourism is a formidable force, fostering economic growth, cultural exchange, and environmental preservation. As we embark on a journey to explore the profound significance of tourism in Africa and Nigeria, we introduce a visionary leader, Mr Mohammed Bougei Attah, the CEO of Trans Atlantic Centre in Okene, whose passion and commitment to investing in the tourism sector are set to transform Nigeria’s economic landscape.
Globally, tourism has been on a steady growth trajectory, with international tourist arrivals surpassing the 1.5 billion mark in 2019, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). However, the COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted the industry, causing a significant decline in international travel in 2020. The pandemic disrupted global tourism, resulting in a sharp decline in arrivals and revenue, but recovery efforts have been ongoing since vaccination campaigns and travel restrictions have eased in many countries.
Africa’s tourism sector has also faced challenges due to the pandemic, but it has shown resilience and potential for growth. Before the pandemic, Africa was experiencing a steady increase in tourist arrivals. In 2019, the continent welcomed approximately 67 million international visitors, a 4% increase from the previous year. This growth was attributed to factors such as improved infrastructure, political stability in several African countries, and the increasing interest in sustainable and experiential tourism.
Several tourist sites in Africa have contributed to the continent’s growing appeal, and despite the pandemic, they continue to attract visitors and generate revenue. One notable example is the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. The Maasai Mara is part of the larger Serengeti ecosystem and is renowned for its incredible wildlife, particularly the annual wildebeest migration. This natural spectacle draws thousands of tourists each year who come to witness the vast herds of animals crossing the Mara River. The Maasai Mara’s success can be attributed to effective conservation efforts, responsible tourism practices, and collaborations with local communities.
Another thriving tourist destination in Africa is Victoria Falls, located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls is one of the world’s largest and most famous waterfalls. Its awe-inspiring beauty and activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and helicopter tours make it a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Sustainable tourism initiatives in the area have helped preserve the natural beauty of the falls while supporting the livelihoods of local communities.
South Africa, with its diverse landscapes and wildlife, is also a major player in African tourism. The country’s Kruger National Park is one of the continent’s premier wildlife reserves, offering visitors the opportunity to see the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) in their natural habitat. South Africa’s well-developed tourism infrastructure, including a wide range of accommodations and guided tours, has contributed to its success as a tourist destination.
These destinations have showcased Africa’s natural beauty and wildlife and embraced sustainable tourism practices to ensure the long-term viability of their attractions. As travel restrictions continue to ease, Africa’s tourism industry is poised to rebound and continue its growth trajectory, contributing to the continent’s economic development and cultural exchange.
Nigeria, on its part, has a diverse range of tourist destinations catering to various interests. Among them are; Obudu Mountain Resort, located in the Obudu Plateau of Cross River State, Yankari National Park, situated in Bauchi State, Zuma Rock often referred to as “Gateway to Abuja, Olumo Rock located in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Aso Rock situated in Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja, Kajuru Castle nestled in the hills of Kaduna State, Nike Art Gallery located in Lagos, Lekki Conservation Centre situated in Lagos, Erin Ijesha Waterfall also known as Olumirin Waterfall, located in Osun State, Gurara Falls situated in Niger State, Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove; UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Osun State and the Trans Atlantic Centre in located in Okene, Kogi state.
At the heart of this transformative potential lies Mr. Mohammed Bougei Attah, a visionary leader and the CEO of Trans Atlantic Centre in Okene, Nigeria. Mr. Attah’s passion for tourism stems from his recognition of its dual role in economic growth and cultural preservation. In his own words, “Tourism is very important to every person and Nigerians because it’s not only a source of economic development, it is also of great importance to individual health.” With this conviction, he has embarked on a mission to unlock the vast tourism potential of Nigeria, particularly in Kogi State.
Mr. Attah’s commitment to tourism as a catalyst for economic transformation is unwavering. He states, “In Kogi State, for example, tourism potentials abound that can transform the economic future of the state. From water to large-scale land and landscapes, the benefits are many and unique. This is particularly what informed my investment in the sector.” His investment in the Trans Atlantic Centre is not only an act of entrepreneurship but also a pledge to harness the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kogi State to benefit the local community and the nation at large.
As we celebrate World Tourism Day, we recognize the immense potential of tourism in Africa and Nigeria. The data given speaks volume about its role in driving economic growth and cultural preservation. Mr. Mohammed Bougei Attah’s vision for Nigerian tourism encapsulates the transformative power of this sector. His dedication to unlocking the potential of Kogi State is a beacon of hope for sustainable development, job creation, and cultural preservation. With leaders like Mr. Attah at the helm, the future of tourism in Nigeria is poised for greatness, promising a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow.
