Religious tourism is an often overlooked but powerful economic driver, capable of transforming local economies by attracting visitors, creating jobs, and generating revenue. The concept of a “multiplier effect” in economics refers to how an initial injection of spending, such as investment in religious tourism, can lead to a chain reaction of increased income, employment, and overall economic activity. Similarly, a “domino effect” describes how one event, like the establishment of a religious center, can trigger a sequence of other events that positively impact the entire community.
These principles are at play in Imo State, where Ebuka Obi, a religious leader, has initiated a bold move by setting up his ministry, sparking both interest and criticism. As an Igbo man, I feel compelled to shed light on how this venture could significantly boost the economy of Imo State and, by extension, the entire Southeast region.
Ebuka Obi’s decision to establish his ministry in Imo State should be viewed not just from a religious perspective but as an opportunity for economic growth. I was born in Imo and, although I hail from Anambra, I consider myself more of an Imo man. I know this state well, and it’s evident that there isn’t much happening beyond the proliferation of hotels. By introducing religious tourism, Ebuka Obi is providing a unique opportunity to change this narrative, creating a ripple effect that could enhance economic activities across the state.
When a religious center is built, the construction itself generates immediate employment opportunities for local workers—many of whom will be from the Igbo community. These construction workers earn wages, which they spend on goods and services such as school fees, rent, food, and other essentials. This spending, in turn, stimulates other sectors of the local economy, from education to real estate to retail. This is the multiplier effect in action: one initial investment leads to a cycle of economic benefits that extend far beyond the initial spending.
Beyond construction, a new religious center will require staffing and support services, creating more jobs in administration, security, hospitality, and maintenance. It will encourage real estate development, with new demand for housing to accommodate both visitors and employees. If a hospital or school is also established, it will require doctors, nurses, teachers, and other professionals, further boosting local employment and economic activity.
Additionally, the presence of a thriving religious center can stimulate growth in other sectors such as transportation and aviation. As more visitors travel to Imo State for religious purposes, local airports will see increased traffic, hotels will be filled, transport services will flourish, and even the informal sector—like food vendors and artisans—will benefit from the influx of people and money. Capital from within Nigeria and overseas will flow into the state, enriching the local economy and creating a cycle of prosperity.
Yet, despite these obvious benefits, many of my fellow Igbo people have been skeptical and critical of Ebuka Obi’s initiative. This reaction is not uncommon; we often react emotionally rather than logically, making rash judgments without fully understanding the potential advantages. Why do we, as a community, struggle to support positive changes that could bring immense benefits to our region?
Additionally, the presence of a thriving religious center can stimulate growth in other sectors such as transportation and aviation. As more visitors travel to Imo State for religious purposes, local airports will see increased traffic, hotels will be filled, transport services will flourish, and even the informal sector—like food vendors and artisans—will benefit from the influx of people and money. Capital from within Nigeria and overseas will flow into the state, enriching the local economy and creating a cycle of prosperity.
Consider the example of other regions: in Ogun State, the Shiloh and Redemption Camp have created billions of Naira in revenue through religious tourism. The Catholic Church in the Vatican, Saudi Arabia with the Hajj, and Israel with pilgrimage sites have all built immense wealth and economic activity through religious tourism. These examples show that religious tourism is a powerful tool for economic development.
Unfortunately, in our community, we sometimes display a “pull him down” mentality, which holds us back from realizing our potential. Instead of criticizing Ebuka Obi’s efforts, we should see this as an opportunity to develop our region, support job creation, and circulate money within our communities.
We, the Igbo people, need to adopt a more pragmatic approach. Instead of tearing down initiatives like Ebuka Obi’s, we should recognize the broader economic benefits they bring and seize the opportunities to improve our lives. Let those called to do God’s work do it while we focus on making our community thrive.
Anthony Emeka Nwosu
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