Ahead of the 68th meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa (CAF) slated for June in Abuja, with the theme ‘Boosting the Social Impact and Education in Tourism through Innovation, AI and the Creative Industries’, the federal government has said it has put facilities in place to ensure a memorable and hitch-free conference.
Speaking Tuesday in Abuja, during a preparatory and assessment visit by officials of the UN Tourism CAF, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, said the event will not only showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, but also highlight the resilience of the tourism sector, its contributions to economic growth, cultural exchange, understanding and cooperation.
She said the UN Tourism CAF plays a pivotal role in integrating tourism efforts across the continent by fostering collaboration among African nations, regional organizations, and international stakeholders, adding that, through its strategic initiatives, the Commission works to harmonize tourism policies, promote sustainable practices and facilitate the development of shared tourism infrastructure that enhances connectivity and accessibility across borders.
Musawa said, by coordinating cross-border tourism initiatives and encouraging joint marketing campaigns, the Commission helps to elevate Africa’s profile as a unified and diverse tourism destination.
The minister said, in preparation for the 68th meeting of the Commission, the federal government is committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s role, as host, will provide an environment conducive to collaboration, innovation, and shared growth, adding that the choice of Abuja as the host city for the meeting is apt as a modern and well-planned city, Abuja provides world-class infrastructure, including state-of-the-art conference facilities, comfortable accommodation options, excellent transportation networks and security measures that will enhance the experience for delegates.
She said the central location in Nigeria ensures easy accessibility for delegates from across the African continent and beyond, with well-connected international and domestic flight routes.
She said: “This event presents a unique opportunity to strengthen collaboration and drive forward the shared vision of tourism as a powerful driver for sustainable development across the African continent. I wish to reaffirm Nigeria’s strong partnership with the UN Tourism, recognizing the critical role collaboration plays in achieving sustainable growth for Africa’s tourism industry. Through its continued engagement with the UN Tourism, Nigeria actively contributes to shaping policies, promoting best practices, and supporting initiatives that foster responsible tourism development across the continent.
“By working together with these international bodies, Nigeria leverages their expertise and resources to drive sustainable tourism that balances economic growth with environmental conservation and cultural preservation. This partnership is essential not only for strengthening Nigeria’s tourism sector but also for advancing Africa’s position as a leading global tourism destination, ensuring that the continent’s rich natural and cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.
“The commission provides a platform for knowledge exchange, capacity-building and the sharing of best practices, enabling countries to strengthen their tourism sectors in a coordinated manner. Ultimately, the UN Tourism Commission’s efforts contribute to the growth of a robust, inclusive and sustainable tourism industry that benefits all African nations while fostering regional integration and economic development.
“The theme for the thematic conference ‘Boosting the Social Impact and Education in Tourism through Innovation, AI, and the Creative Industries’ holds significant relevance for Nigeria’s tourism and creative industry sectors, which are increasingly embracing innovation and technology to drive sustainable growth and social development. In addition, the Technical Workshop, which will hold parallel to the Commission will serve as an essential platform for upskilling, knowledge-sharing and fostering innovation within the tourism industry.
“Nigeria’s tourism sector is leveraging advancements in innovation and AI to enhance visitor experiences, streamline operations and promote the country’s rich cultural heritage on a global stage. At the same time, the creative industries, which include film, music, fashion and arts, are playing an essential role in shaping the nation’s cultural identity, creating jobs and fostering local entrepreneurship.
“By integrating innovative technologies and educational platforms, Nigeria aims to harness the full potential of these sectors to address social challenges, provide learning opportunities and empower communities. This approach underscores the power of tourism and the creative industries not only as economic drivers but as catalysts for positive social change, education and empowerment across the country.”
She added: “In preparation for the 68th meeting of the Commission, we are committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s role, as host will provide an environment conducive to collaboration, innovation, and shared growth. Together, we can create impactful policies that elevate Africa’s tourism potential, enhance intra-African tourism and attract global visitors, while preserving our unique cultures and natural resources.
“The choice of Abuja, the Capital city of Nigeria as the host city for the meeting is apt. As a modern and well-planned city, Abuja provides world-class infrastructure, including state-of-the-art conference facilities, comfortable accommodation options, excellent transportation networks and security measures that will enhance the experience for delegates. Its central location in Nigeria ensures easy accessibility for delegates from across the African continent and beyond, with well-connected international and domestic flight routes.
“The event will take place at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel. The hotel is centrally located and offers easy accessibility and proximity from the Airport. In addition to the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, eight (8) other Hotels with close proximity to the venue of the meeting have been selected and designated for the accommodation of delegates at discounted rates. Endeavour to visit some of the hotels.
“The provision of transport for delegates at the conference is a key logistical component, ensuring seamless mobility and convenience throughout the event. To facilitate smooth transportation, a comprehensive and well-coordinated system will be implemented, offering reliable shuttle services between the airport, meeting venue, hotel and social functions. A range of comfortable and accessible transport options will be available, including buses, and individual vehicles for Ministers, to accommodate the diverse needs of delegates.
“Nigeria is renowned for her hospitality and warmth, offering a unique and enriching experience to visitors, contributing to a welcoming, comfortable and memorable experience for all delegates. Some aspect of hospitality like tea, lunch and dinner/entertainment are considered as critical component of the event and Nigeria will treat our guest to the true Nigerian hospitality.”
Speaking earlier, the Director UN Toursim Regional Department for Africa, Ms. Elcia Grandcourt, who led officials to the ministry, said the visit is to ascertain the readiness of the country, saying the delegation will visit Transcorp Hilton hotel, where the meeting is expected to take place in June, and eight other hotels where officials from different countries are expected to be accommodated.
She said Nigeria has hosted previous meetings in the past and has no doubt that the country has the capacity, saying the meeting will afford the youth to leverage on AI for empowerment opportunities.