Themed “Tourism and Peace”, the 2024 World Tourism Day Celebration slated for Friday, 27th September, may have come and gone, but what would linger in the memories of the attendees of the Lagos State version for a long time to come was the special way Lagos State Government celebrated the day which brought to bear, once again, why the State of Aquatic Splendor is given the appellation of “Eko For Show” amongst the comity of states in Nigeria.
With the Lagos State Mininisry of Tourism, Arts and Culture taking charge under the stewardship of the Honourable Commissioner manning the Ministry, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, in partnership with Sterling Bank, the premises of Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, was exquisitely transformed into a mini Tourist/Exhibition Centre where vendors of all sorts of cultural materials mounted tents under which their wares were conspicuously displayed for all to see and patronise.
It was within that social-cultural ambience that a Marquee mounted to host the official part of the Tourism Day Ceremony stood tall. And, after all guests were seated in the Marquee, the day event anchored by Stand-Up Comedian, Alli Baba, and top event compere, Mojibade Shosanya, started in earnest with the National Anthem. And right after that, it was time for the host Commissioner to step onto the podium for her Opening Remark.
Speaking, Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka stated that: “Lagos, as a dynamic hub of culture and commerce, understands the power of tourism in building not only an inclusive society but a peaceful one. Through tourism, we are able to connect with the world, break down cultural barriers, and offer a platform where differences are not just acknowledged but celebrated.
“The tourism sector serves as a powerful catalyst for fostering peace. As visitors from around the world explore different lands, meet new people, and experience diverse cultures, they engage in an exchange that promotes mutual respect, tolerance, and friendship. It is this spirit of shared humanity that can turn tourism into an engine for peace and reconciliation, as it opens hearts and minds to new ways of thinking, living, and coexisting.”
Speaking further, the stylish and admirably articulate Commissioner asserted that, ” In Lagos, we are not only committed to promoting tourism as an economic driver but also as a tool for fostering peace. Our initiatives continue to elevate Lagos as a global tourism destination, where cultural diversity is showcased, and our rich heritage is shared with the world. Today, as we gather here at Muri Okunola Park, I am proud to say that Lagos remains a beacon of cultural and tourism excellence.
“Our collaboration with Sterling Bank is a testament to the power of partnerships in driving the growth of this vital sector. Through this joint effort, we hope to strengthen the narrative of tourism as a path to peace and reconciliation, demonstrating how tourism can create opportunities for sustainable development while bringing people closer together.”
She concluded her remark by charging that, everyone should continue to harness the power of tourism to promote peace, unity, and a shared understanding of the world. The Commissioner’s remark was followed by a remark by the Executive Director, Sterling Bank, Mr. Tunde Adeola, who appreciated the Lagos State Minisitry of Tourism, Arts and Culture for the leading role it always plays in their area of human endeavour and pledged future support of Sterling Bank to the good cause.
After Mr. Adeola’s remark, it was time for the Lead Panelist, HRM Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, C.O.N., Abisogun II, Oniru of Iruland‘s presentation and the urbane Monarch did not disappoint as he spoke on sundry issues around Tourism and Peace. The Royal Father who broke his lengthy presentation into segments spoke about areas including Paul Collier’s Theory on Conflict & Peace, The Importance of Peace in Tourism, Tourism as a Catalyst for Peace and the Relationship between Tourism and Peace.
Other areas Kabiyesi touched in his presentation included: Promoting Peace through Cultural Heritage & Tourism in Iru Kingdom, Tourism as a Tool for Conflict Resolution and Cultural Understanding, Partnerships Enhancing Social Cohesion, Encouraging Responsible Tourism, Comparative Analysis: Lagos and Istanbul, Role of Educational Attainment of Youth, Harnessing Tourism to Build Peace and Prosperity, Job Creation for Youths on the Beachfront, Future Directions to Sustainable Tourism Practices and Responsible Travel, as well as Policy Recommendations for Tourism to Promote Peace.
Kabiyesi concluded by saying: “As we celebrate World Tourism Day 2024, let us acknowledge the vital role of tourism in promoting peace. By embracing Paul Collier’s theory on conflict and peace, investing in the education of our youth, and learning from successful examples like Istanbul, we can unlock the full potential of tourism in fostering economic development and social stability.
“Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, let us commit to creating a future where tourism serves as a bridge to peace, providing opportunities for our youth and building a more harmonious world.”
After Oniru’s deeply intellectual presentation, there was a panel session on the topic: ” Tourism and Peace: It’s Relevance to Nation Building”, which involved Ms. Abiola Adelana, Head, Tourism and Creative Art Business, Sterling Bank, Mr. Chike Ogeah, MD, Mac Folly, Lagos Marriot Hotel. Ms. Damilola Ayinde Marshal, SSA to the Governor of Lagos State on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Nkechi Uko, CEO Akwaaba Africa Travel Market, Ms. Biola Sokenu, Group Executive Director, Nile Media Entertainment, and Ms. Banke Kuku, Creative Entrepreneur. The panel was moderated by Mr. Oluwaseyi Adegoke.
Right after the highly engaging panel session, there were goodwill messages from top personalities including Abubakar Sulaiman, MD, CEO, Sterling Bank, Minister for Tourism, Lola Ade-John who was ably represented by her Special Adviser, Ajibike Teniola, Moji Bakare, GM, Corporate Banking, Joke Silva, Veteran Nigerian Actress, Director and Businesswoman, Olori Aderonke Ogunwusi, CEO of Adire Hub, Chief Nike Okundaye, Owner and Curator, Nike Art Gallery, Mr. Lucky Idike, Founder/CEO – Afro Flavor Food Festival (UK & US), Reubens Abati, Nigerian Journalist, TV Presenter and Newspaper Columnist and Olabanjo Alimi, Group Head, Red&M.
There was a closing remark from S.A. to Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Idris Aregbe before the event ended with Exhibition Tour on the premises of Muri Okunola Park by the attendees.
Saheed Ojubanire.
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