By Onyinyechi Madubuike
The Anambra State Ministry of Culture, Entertainment and Tourism welcomed the South-East Zonal Coordinator of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, Mr. Ebiloma Shaibu, during a courtesy visit to the Commissioner’s office in Awka on 21 July.
Mr. Shaibu said the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority remains committed to promoting tourism nationwide, positioning Nigeria among Africa’s leading tourism destinations, while leveraging the sector for sustainable economic growth and development.
He described tourism as a powerful instrument for poverty reduction, employment generation, wealth creation, investment attraction and cultural exchange, reaffirming the Authority’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with Anambra State for tourism advancement.
The Zonal Coordinator commended Governor Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s administration for prioritizing tourism development and encouraged greater promotion of Ogbunike Cave, Owerre-Ezukala Cave and Waterfall, alongside the state’s colourful cultural festivals.
Responding, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Chief Udoji Okolo Amedu, reaffirmed the Soludo administration’s commitment to diversifying the state’s economy through strategic investments in culture, entertainment and tourism development.
Chief Amedu emphasized that tourism remains a vital catalyst for economic prosperity, employment opportunities, cultural preservation and increased investments, assuring the delegation of the government’s continued support for meaningful partnerships within the sector.
He further noted that the ministry is implementing policies designed to enhance tourism infrastructure, preserve Anambra’s rich cultural heritage and position the state as Nigeria’s foremost tourism and cultural destination.
The Commissioner appreciated the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority for the visit and pledged sustained collaboration to unlock Anambra’s tourism potential, improve visitor experiences and deliver lasting socio-economic benefits for residents and investors.
The courtesy visit ended with both parties expressing optimism that stronger collaboration would accelerate tourism development, boost economic opportunities and promote Anambra’s unique cultural heritage on national and international platforms.
Onyinyechi is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.
