Commissioner Egemba preach
es the good news of 3R in Hospitality Sector at world Tourism Day
By Chuks Nwokeji
Imo State celebrated World Tourism Day on October 23 at City Cruz Hotel,in what it called World Tourism Day Extravaganza with the theme; "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation".
It featured various dance presentation from Children of Unique Schools, various artists, the leadership of Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria,PMAN was there and other notable artists.
It was indeed a fun filled day with lots of entertainment in cultural dance, drama, talkshow etc.
There was also a lecture on the theme of the event by Engr. Chibuike Diala, a hospitality strategist, Author and development advocate with over two decades experience in Hospitality and Tourism Sector.
In his usual mannerism, Imo State Commissioner for Hospitality, Tourism and Culture, Barr.Jerry Egemba while delivering his address at the event took time to outline the efforts and impacts of Shared Prosperity Administration of Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma in the hospitality and Tourism Sector.
According to his address "the revitalization of Imo Concorde Hotel, a symbol of Imo Hospitality Heritage is in progress, ensuring it regains it's pride place as one of the premier Hotels in Eastern Nigeria.
Oguta Lake Atlantic Ocean Waterway Dredging Project is steadily advancing, it will introduce new opportunities for eco-tourism, boat cruises and marine recreation, is beyond navigation and trade.
The Urashi Free Trade Zone is expected to stimulate hospitality growth and tourism-driven enterprise across adjoining communities, A modern Zoo is under way,designed as a family friendly educational and conservation Center that will attract schools families and nature lovers.
The proposed Nworie-Otamiri, Best-in-class All Service Recreational Facilities will soon redefine leisure and lifestyle tourism in Nigeria,the premium water destination will feature amusement parks, boat cruise facilities,family entertainment zones, food emporium, shopping mall, golf course,resort style accommodation, arts and crafts centers and cultural bash activities all envisioned to World Class Standard.
Governor Uzodimma has promoted cultural Renaissance and creative Industry Synergy, one kindred one business and one community one Project initiative which empowers communities to drive tourism from the grass root".
The level of developmental attention Governor Uzodimma pays to issues concerning Tourism, Hospitality and Culture shows his sincerity of purpose, passion with deep understanding that Tourism plays a significant role in the economic development of many countries, and when managed sustainably, it can contribute to the achievement of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
It is a well known fact that Sustainable Tourism Development involves finding a balance between economic growth, environmental conservation, and social equity, ensuring that tourism activities support the well-being of local communities and the environment, the governor's modus operandi tarries with this reality and his approach prioritizes the preservation of natural resources, cultural heritage, and biodiversity, promotion of economic benefits and job creation.
The governor's action and achievements in the Tourism and Hospitality Sector proves his clear understanding that tourism sector has the potential to advance urban infrastructure and accessibility, promote regeneration, and preserve cultural and natural heritage.
Indeed; the event was a huge success, it's pertinent to commend the Commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality and Culture, Barr. Jerry Egemba for complimenting the efforts of effort of Governor Uzodimma in the Hospitality Sector and Championing his policies and programs with the spirit of excellence. Indeed the commissioner seized the opportunity presented by the event to highlight the state's progress in tourism development under Governor Hope Uzodimma's leadership to a point that both the deaf and blind can understand his message and fully support the government of Shared Prosperity Administration in the state.
According to the Hospitality, Tourism and Culture Comissioner, Some key projects driving tourism growth in Imo State include; Oguta Lake Atlantic Ocean Waterway Dredging Project, introducing new opportunities for eco-tourism, boat cruises, and marine recreation. Nworie-Otamiri Best-in-Class All-Service Recreational Facility, Featuring amusement parks, boat cruise facilities, family entertainment zones, food emporium, shopping mall, golf course, resort-style accommodation, arts and crafts centers, and cultural bash activities.
It also included; Urashi Free Trade Zone, expected to stimulate hospitality growth and tourism-driven enterprise across adjoining communities.
Modern Zoo designed as a family-friendly educational and conservation center that will attract schools, families, and nature lovers.
The event showcased the state's rich cultural heritage, hospitality, and creativity, highlighting the potential for tourism to drive economic growth and development.
By prioritizing sustainable tourism practices, Imo State aims to promote the well-being of local communities and the environment while supporting economic growth.
The World Tourism Day celebration served as a reminder of the importance of tourism in achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By adopting sustainable tourism practices, the tourism sector can contribute to the achievement of the SDGs, promoting environmental conservation, social equity, and economic benefits.
In conclusion, the event was a huge success, Imo State's efforts to promote sustainable tourism development are commendable, and the state's unique cultural heritage, hospitality, and creativity make it an attractive destination for tourists.
With the right policies and practices Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma is puting in place for transformative and sustainable development in Imo Hospitality and Tourism sector, soon tourism will fully drive economic growth and development in Imo State and highly promote the well-being of local communities and the environment for the betterment of state.