By Justina Okpanku
The President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), the organised private sector in the tourism industry, Mr. Nkereuwem Onung has called for a purposeful leadership within the newly-merged Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy.
THE CONCLAVE reports that the Ministry of Tourism was created 17 years ago and was scrapped and merged with the Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy in the restructuring of ministries by President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.
In a statement, Thursday, Onung took a hard look at the merger with that of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, describing the federal government’s decision as a ‘rude shock.”
He, however, stressed the need for “a passionate, creative, and purposeful leadership within the newly-formed ministry” as a way forward.
According to the Federation, while it acknowledges the complexities involved in this merger, “It also recognises the interconnectedness of tourism, arts, and culture as vital components of a singular industry, the abrupt nature of these changes was unexpected.”
The FTAN noted that the merger, if positively handled, “presents a unique opportunity for a more integrated approach to development.”
FTAN expressed surprise and concern regarding the recent merger (Ministry of Tourism with the Ministry of Culture, Arts, and the Creative Industry now forming the Ministry of Culture, Arts, Tourism, and Creative Industry).
“This significant decision, announced by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, also includes the removal of Lola Ade-John as the tourism minister. The news of this merger and the minister’s removal came as a “rude shock to us.”
However, he said they believed that this government’s decision wss not a misplaced priority.
“The convergence of these sectors under one ministry presents a unique opportunity for a more integrated approach to development.”
Onung, therefore, urged the new leadership of the new ministry to imbibe “a deep understanding of the industries,” in addition to possessing ” a vision that inspires collaboration and innovation,” in order to achieve desired goals of the government.
He expressed enthusiasm to work with the ministry in realising these objectives.
“If the government is genuinely committed to the growth and promotion of these sectors, it is imperative that the new leadership not only possesses a deep understanding of the industries but also a vision that inspires collaboration and innovation.
”FTAN looks forward to engaging with the government in a constructive dialogue to ensure that the merged ministry fulfils its potential in revitalising Nigeria tourism and cultural sectors.
“The federation remains committed to advocating policies that will foster sustainable growth and development in these crucial areas,” the statement also said.
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