How Abia State Won National Honour for Tourism at Prestigious Abuja Roundtable

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All Facts Newspaper | April 2025 | Abuja

Abia State has been spotlighted on the national stage for its exceptional efforts in promoting tourism and cultural development under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti. The recognition came at the second edition of the Nigeria Entertainment and Economic Roundtable (NEER), held recently in Abuja.

Themed "Culture and Tourism: Unlocking Possibilities and Locating Pathways to Rapid Economic DiversificationÔÇØ, the event brought together key stakeholders from Nigeria's entertainment, cultural, and tourism industries. Among the high points of the occasion was the Award of Recognition for Exceptional Dedication to Promoting Tourism and Cultural Development, presented to Governor Alex Otti for his administration's transformative efforts in the tourism sector.

Representing Governor Otti at the event was Hon. Iheanyi Frank Chinasa, the National Assembly Liaison Officer, who delivered a compelling and visionary address on behalf of the state.

Speaking during the session, Hon. Chinasa emphasized that culture and tourism, while often overlooked, are central to Nigeria's efforts to diversify its economy. He described them as powerful tools for job creation, heritage preservation, social cohesion, and investment attraction.

"Culture and tourism are more than just expressions of identity-they are powerful economic assets. They fuel job creation, attract investment, preserve heritage, and promote social cohesion,ÔÇØ Hon. Chinasa said.

He unveiled a number of strategic initiatives being implemented by the Abia State Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, which include plans to collaborate with the Federal Government to revitalize key heritage sites such as the National War Museum and the Ojukwu Bunker in Umuahia.

These sites, he noted, are set to be transformed into world-class tourism destinations capable of attracting both domestic and international visitors-thereby boosting the state's economy and creating new employment opportunities for youths.

Hon. Chinasa explained that these initiatives align with Governor Alex Otti's broader vision of building a robust, creative, and tourism-driven economy in Abia State. According to him, intentional investments, strategic partnerships, and enabling policies are the foundation of Abia's cultural resurgence.

"Abia is no longer waiting to be discovered; we are actively positioning ourselves as the cultural and tourism capital of the Southeast,ÔÇØ Chinasa stated.

Abia's recognition at the NEER 2025 Roundtable further underscores the significant strides the state has made in economic repositioning. The roundtable itself served as a national policy think tank where government, private sector players, and cultural experts shared actionable insights on how to reposition Nigeria's non-oil sectors for growth.

Experts at the event noted that globally, the tourism and cultural industries contribute billions to national GDPs, and Nigeria, with its rich heritage and diverse traditions, is well-positioned to harness similar potential.

Abia State, through deliberate policy and commitment under Governor Otti, is now leading by example.

As Nigeria seeks sustainable alternatives to oil, the leadership shown by states like Abia in embracing cultural and tourism development will be critical to the country's long-term economic survival.

This national recognition is yet another milestone for Governor Otti's administration, which continues to receive commendation for its bold, people-focused development strategy.

With projects aimed at reviving cultural landmarks, promoting heritage tourism, and unlocking youth creativity, Abia is fast emerging as a reference point in Nigeria's journey toward inclusive and diversified growth.