Travels

WORLD TOURISM DAY: Minister Says Covid Vaccine Nationalism Hinders Restart of Tourism

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has said ‘COVID-19 vaccine nationalism’ is hindering the efforts being made to restart the tourism sector, following the devastating blow it suffered as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.


The Minister stated this in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, on Monday in his address at the 44th Edition of the United Nations #WorldTourismDay2021 celebration, with the theme “Tourism for Inclusive Growth.”

He said the tourism sector, which is people-driven, can only open up effectively and contribute to economic growth when the people are adequately protected from COVID-19, adding that ‘vaccine nationalism’ has heightened the inequality and inequity in the global vaccine distribution system.

“Today, rich countries are able to procure vaccines for their own citizens through direct agreement with pharmaceutical companies; while low and middle income countries are lagging, unable to act as speedily as rich countries in securing the quantity of vaccines they need or unable to afford to pay for any at all. Whereas some rich countries are already talking of third booster shots, many low and middle-income countries have not even given one shot to their citizens.

“Added to this is the restriction placed on the citizens from certain countries by the rich nations. These restrictions, made possible by the use of ‘vaccine passports’, as well as the low level of vaccination in the low and middle income countries due to ‘vaccine nationalism’ that has seen rich countries mop up available vaccines, are capable of thwarting the efforts to restart tourism,” Alhaji Mohammed said.

He therefore called in the rich countries of the world to retrace their steps and embrace a collective and equitable global strategy for COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing, procurement, and distribution, stressing that they must also stop ineffective nationalistic disposition in COVID-19 responses.

The Minister added that COVID-19 response should be science-driven, with experts in epidemiology, virology and the social sciences (not politicians) taking the lead in devising and implementing science-based strategies to reduce the risks that the pandemic poses to the most vulnerable across the globe and to reduce transmission of this novel virus.

“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that tourism remains a sector of hope, providing opportunities for empowerment and entrepreneurship for people and education. I enjoin all stakeholders to place inclusiveness at the centre of their strategies in order to develop a safe, unique and overwhelming experience for visitors,” he said.

In reference to the theme of the World Tourism Day 2021, Alhaji Mohammed said inclusive growth deals with policies that allow people from different groups; gender, ethnicity, religion and across sectors; agriculture, manufacturing, etc to contribute to and benefit from economic growth.

Dignitaries at the event include the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Col. Samaila Yombe (Rtd); Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, Dr. Ifeoma Ayanwutaku, and management staff of the ministry; Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission, Balarabe Shehu Illelah, and the DG of National Commission for Museums and Monuments Abba Isa Tijani.

Others are the DG of Nigerian Institute for Cultural Orientation Mohammed Ado Yahuza and DG of National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism Nura Kangiwa; Executive Director, National Film and Video Censors Board Adebayo Thomas; DG of the Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation Folorunsho Coker; and General Manager, National Theatre, Sunday Ododo.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published.

You may also like

Business Economy Environment Government International Technology Technology Trends Telecoms

Nigerian Delegation Visits MTN Group Headquarters to Strengthen Bilateral Relations

post-image

 

A high-ranking delegation from Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently visited the MTN Group headquarters in Johannesburg, South Africa. The visit highlighted the growing efforts to deepen economic and diplomatic relations between the two largest economies in Africa.

The Nigerian team was led by Rt. Hon. Wole Oke, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and included prominent figures such as Amb. Ahmed Sulu-Gambari, the Head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Nigeria’s High Commissioner to South Africa, H.E. Alexander T. Ajayi; and other senior officials.

MTN Group’s top executives welcomed the delegation, including Group Chairman, Mcebisi Jonas; Chief of Staff (CEO’s Office), Jerry Varachia; Executive for Network Design, Amith Maharaj; Executive for Core Mergers and Acquisitions, Annemarie Krijnauw; Executive for Internal Audit, Motselisi Molapo; and Senior Manager for Strategic Public Affairs, Dominic Khumalo.

During the meeting, discussions focused on fostering stronger ties between Nigeria and South Africa. Both parties acknowledged…

Read More
Business Economy Education News

Federal Government of Nigeria Introduces 15 Skill Acquisition Courses in Primary and Junior Secondary School Curriculum

post-image

 

In a significant move to empower the future workforce and enhance the employability of students, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the integration of 15 skill acquisition courses into the curriculum of Primary and Junior Secondary Schools across the country. Starting from the 2025 academic year, students will be able to select one skill to study from Primary 1 through to Junior Secondary 3 (JSS3), ensuring that by the time they complete their education, they will have both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in their chosen field.

This groundbreaking initiative is designed to address the skills gap in Nigeria by fostering a generation of students who are not only academically inclined but also possess hands-on expertise in various trades…

Read More
Announcements Business Economy Finance Fintech International

Akwa Ibom Tech Week 2024: Ushering in a New Era of Innovation in Africa

post-image

The much-anticipated Akwa Ibom Tech Week 2024 concluded with remarkable success, marking another milestone in the region’s journey to becoming a leading tech hub in Africa. Held from October 28th to November 2nd, 2024, the event brought together tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, government representatives, and innovators from across Nigeria and the globe to discuss the future of digital transformation, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

The event, which was held in the vibrant city of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, served as a powerful testament to the region’s growing influence in Africa’s digital economy. Hanson Johnson, Founder and CEO of Start Innovation Hub, one of the central organizations driving this transformation, expressed his pride and excitement as he reflected on the event’s success.

In his address,…

Read More
Announcements Business Featured News Opinion Technology Trends Telecoms

The Hidden Roadblocks to Nigeria’s Digital Revolution

post-image

In the heart of Nigeria’s bustling cities and its quiet rural communities, an invisible challenge is quietly stalling the nation’s journey toward a digital future. While vandalism and theft of telecom infrastructure are often cited as the primary culprits behind poor connectivity, an even more insidious issue is threatening to derail progress: denial of access to telecom facilities.

This growing crisis took center stage at the Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Protection and Resilience Workshop Series, held in Abuja and organized by the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCCC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser. Among the speakers was Dr. Aminu Maida, a leading figure in the telecom sector, who painted a sobering picture of a nation held back by bureaucratic hurdles, community resistance, and property disputes.

“In 2023 alone, we recorded over 20,000 cases of site access denial,” Dr. Maida revealed. “Each of these represents a barrier to connecting…

Read More
Business Economy

Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani Advocates Strengthened Local Government Capacity through #Project774

post-image

Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy for the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has reiterated the critical role of Local Government autonomy in advancing grassroots governance and fostering digital inclusion. Speaking on the ongoing implementation of #Project774, he emphasized the project’s pivotal role in delivering the dividends of governance directly to citizens at the last mile.

“With the introduction of Local Government Autonomy in Nigeria, it is imperative that we strengthen the capacity of our LGA structures through initiatives like #Project774, ensuring that governance is both impactful and inclusive,” Dr. Tijani remarked.

As part of this transformative initiative, Dr. Tijani recently hosted a strategic brainstorming session with state government representatives. The event brought together commissioners, agency heads, advisers, and local government chairmen from seven states—Sokoto, Borno, Ogun, Kogi, Imo, Zamfara, and Kwara—participating in the project’s first phase.

“The discussions were focused on ensuring the efficient use of…

Read More
Business Economy Environment Government Security Society Technology Technology Trends Telecoms

President Tinubu Strengthens ICT Sector with Landmark Protection Order

post-image

 

The federal government has taken a decisive step toward securing Nigeria’s digital economy with the release of the *Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure Order, 2024*. The gazette, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was lauded by Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, as a transformative move to safeguard the nation’s technological assets and infrastructure.

Dr. Tijani emphasized the order’s pivotal role in reducing disruptions and intentional damage to critical ICT systems and infrastructure. “This is a significant step that will strengthen and protect investments in the ICT sector by reducing incidences capable of damaging the operations and functionality of our technological systems, infrastructure, and networks,” he stated.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) also commended the initiative, describing it as a critical milestone for the telecom sector. The Commission highlighted that the order would help mitigate recurring…

Read More
Autos Business Culture Economy

Igboland: A Rising Powerhouse in Car Manufacturing

post-image

 

Igboland is steadily carving out a reputation as a hub for automotive innovation in West Africa, driven by the vision and determination of local entrepreneurs. With the presence of three car manufacturing and assembly companies—Innoson Motors, Roxettes Cars, and the emerging Omaa Motors—the region is becoming a focal point for Nigeria’s industrial transformation.

Innoson Motors, based in Umudim, Nnewi, Anambra State, stands out as a beacon of indigenous innovation. Founded with a vision to reduce Nigeria’s dependency on foreign imports, Innoson has achieved remarkable success by producing 80% of its vehicle components locally. This achievement reflects not only a deep understanding of local market needs but also a commitment to creating jobs and fostering economic growth within the region. Over the years, Innoson has become synonymous with quality and resilience, inspiring a new generation of African manufacturers.

In neighboring Abia State, Roxettes Cars,…

Read More
Business News

Faith Cathedral International Ministries Celebrates a Spirit-Filled Conclusion to Men Convention 2024

post-image

 

On Sunday, November 17th, 2024, Faith Cathedral International Ministries in Egbeda, Lagos, held a moving Thanksgiving service to mark the conclusion of its week-long Men Convention 2024. The event, which brought together men from all walks of life within the church and the surrounding community, was a profound expression of faith, unity, and service to God.

The weeklong convention, which began with a series of spiritual activities and outreach programs, culminated in a powerful Thanksgiving service that resonated with the theme of steadfastness and spiritual responsibility. With the church’s auditorium filled with attendees, the air was thick with gratitude, as the congregation reflected on the transformative messages shared during the week.

Pastor Fred Obetoh, the church’s General Overseer, took to the stage to address the men of the congregation with a heartfelt sermon. In his message, Pastor Fred encouraged the men to remain unwavering in their faith despite the materialistic pressures…

Read More