Enugu State Government partners with NIHOTOUR to boost tourism sector growth

The Enugu State Government has joined forces with the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) to initiate a three-day training program for Enugu State Tourism Board staff and hotel employees. The aim is to enhance sustainable tourism development and improve hospitality operations and practices within the state.

Dame Rita Mbah, the Executive Chairman of the Enugu State Tourism Board, emphasized the significance of tourism in Governor Peter Mbah’s administration’s goal to elevate the state’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion. The training focuses on equipping personnel with relevant skills and best practices to ensure efficient and high-quality service delivery.

Dame Mbah highlighted tourism as a major global employer and a cornerstone of numerous economies worldwide. She expressed gratitude for Governor Peter Mbah’s support in repositioning the state’s tourism and hospitality sector to play a significant role in achieving the envisioned GDP.

Alhaji Nura Kangiwa, the Director-General of NIHOTOUR, praised Governor Mbah’s commitment to capacity building in the state’s tourism and hospitality industry. The training is tailored to address emerging industry needs and contribute to reducing unemployment in Nigeria.

Highlighting the swift recovery of the travel and tourism sector, Kangiwa referenced a report from the United Nations World Tourism Organization, which indicated that over 2.6 million people were employed in various segments of Travel and Tourism in Nigeria in 2020. He emphasized the potential for the tourism and hospitality sector to reshape and diversify Nigeria’s economy.

The Director of Hospitality at NIHOTOUR, Ibrahim Baba, explained that the training is expertly designed to enhance the skills, knowledge, and attitudes of personnel. NIHOTOUR expressed its commitment to continued collaboration with the Enugu State Government in furthering the development of the tourism and hospitality sector.