- Peter Obi emphasizes sports tourism’s potential to attract foreign investment and drive Nigeria’s economic growth during a national roundtable discussion
- Developing infrastructure for sports tourism can create jobs, stimulate local economies, and enhance Nigeria’s global image as a tourist destination
Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has emphasized the importance of sports tourism in driving Nigeria’s economic growth and attracting Direct Foreign Investment (DFI).
Obi made this assertion during his keynote address at the National Football and Tourism Roundtable held on Friday at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.
Themed “Unlocking Nigeria’s Potential: Exploring the Synergy of Sports Tourism and Foreign Direct Investment,” the event was organized by the World Football Exhibition in collaboration with the Chinese Tourism Promoters Initiative and Emirati Innovative Services.
Represented by Peter Ameh, a Public Affairs Analyst and National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), Obi highlighted Nigeria’s deep-rooted passion for sports, particularly football, as a critical advantage in developing sports tourism.
He stressed that building sports tourism infrastructure and hosting international events could draw foreign investors and significantly boost the economy.
“Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation, boasts abundant natural resources, a vibrant culture, and resilient citizens,” Obi stated. “Despite these strengths, the country has faced challenges like economic instability, infrastructure gaps, and low investment. However, sports tourism and foreign investment hold the key to unlocking our potential.”
He outlined how Nigeria could attract tourists and generate revenue by developing modern stadiums, training centers, and sports museums. “Hosting international sports events can create jobs, stimulate local economies, and foster cultural exchange,” he said.
Obi also noted that addressing corruption, insecurity, and regulatory hurdles would help create a favorable environment for foreign investors. He added, “With an improved investment climate, Nigeria can access foreign capital, expertise, and technology to spur growth, create employment, and reduce poverty.”
The roundtable organizers described the event as a platform for tourism and sports stakeholders to collaborate on making sports tourism a vital contributor to national economic development.
Mr. Akin Laniyi, Project Director of the World Football Exhibition, announced plans to launch a historical book chronicling Nigeria’s football history from the colonial era in March.
Ambassador Aisha Yusuf, representing the Chinese Tourism Promoters, noted that the initiative aligns football, tourism, and hospitality, creating opportunities to showcase Nigeria’s potential to attract foreign investment.
This collaboration aims to strengthen Nigeria’s economy through sports tourism and ensure sustainable development for the country.
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