Benue stakeholders strategize to reposition tourism sector

By Tahav Agerzua

Major tourism stakeholders in Benue State met and strategized on how to reposition the sector.

Information, Culture and Tourism Commissioner, Rt. Hon. Ngunan Addingi, convened the meeting which was held at the Tor Tiv Hall of Benue Hotels in Makurdi.

The meeting which was ttended by tourism players in the public and private sectors highlighted the challenges of the industry and proffered solutions.

The participants appreciated the efforts of the Governor Samuel Ortom administration for putting together the maiden tourism stakeholders’ meeting and his plans to boost its activities through the introduction of Air Peace Airline flights to the State.

The stakeholders stressed the need to showcase and promote the state’s cultural heritage through encouragement of indigenous dressing in traditional textiles and patronage of local cuisines, arts, crafts, music and theatre.

They emphasized the need for synergy among stakeholders for sustainable development of the sector.

The stakeholders agreed on the need for corporate organizations operating in the State to invest in corporate social responsibility projects so as to boost activities in the sector.

They suggested the organisation of regular Benue culture and tourism summits, and promotion of the entertainment industry through round table discussions.

Those in attendance were divided into groups which included entertainment, hospitality, events, culture and tourism and urged to serve as think tank for the development of the industry in the State.

It was agreed that a Benue Cultural festival be held next year to promote the authentic Benue narrative by taking it to the world for appreciation.

The stakeholders noted that in order to promote tourism an Arts and Crafts Gallery in the State should also be established.