Nigeria’s coastlines provide a huge tourism potential, a Lagos-based tour operator, Aminat Akanbi, has said.
She called on the Lagos State and Federal Government to develop the nation’s beautiful coastlines and waterways to attract domestic and foreign tourists.
Akanbi, Managing Director, Triplisters, made the call at the 11th edition of the Naija7wonders webinar session, organised by Mr Ikechi Uko, promoter of AKWAABA Africa Travel and Tourism Market.
The theme of the meeting is: “Where to Visit in Nigeria; Issues of Access and Security.”
The tour operator said that the nation was well endowed with rich, unique and beautiful coastlines which had not been properly tapped.
She said that the government and private investors could site beaches, resorts and other forms of recreational facilities along Nigeria’s 863 km coastline stretching from Badagry to Calabar.
According to her, the coastlines can be properly developed and positioned to attract local and international tourists, thereby boosting the nation’s internally generated revenue.
“It is high time the Federal Government think of developing our coastline, this is an asset for the nation.
“Government can provide basic infrastructure that will empower private companies to build resorts, hotels, and open up more beaches along the coastlines,” she said.
Akanbi gave example of the Ikate Island in Victoria Island, Lagos, a resort properly developed with lots of attractions, like wildlife, lots of seafoods, sight of dolphins and more.
Emeka Anokwuru, a Tourism Journalist, urged Nigerians to desist from the habit of killing wild animals, dolphins and other sea creatures which were meant to be part of the nation’s wildlife and fauna asset.
Anokwuru spoke on the beautiful features of Igbeti hills in Igbeti town of Oyo State, with 16 hills of different heights and shapes, which played defensive role during the ancient inter-tribal wars in the town.
He also urged Nigerians to visit the Okomu National Park in Benin City, where the floral and fauna endowments of nature could be seen and enjoyed.
“We have the wonders of nature and community of animals at the Okomu National Park, it is the smallest of all the seven National Parks in the country but rich in content.
“One can enjoy canopy walk of about 40 metres, wilderness hiking, outdoor camping, the sight of white-throated monkeys, chimpanzees, elephants and more,” he said.
Mr Taiwo Oludayo, Chief Executive Officer, Aeroport Travels and Tours, encouraged Nigerians to explore tourists’ attractions within the country to consciously boost domestic tourism.
Oludayo enumerated some fascinating tourism sites such as the Olumo Rock in Ogun state, Lekki Conservation Centre and Tarkwa Bay Beach in Lagos.
He said that each of these sites were pleasurable for family reunion, picnics, honeymoon and all. (NAN)