Rivers State, Federal Government partner to boost tourism, creative economy

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‎The Federal Government and the Rivers State Government have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at enhancing cooperation in the tourism, arts, culture, and creative economy sectors across Nigeria.
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‎The deal, spearheaded by the Federal Government, seeks to deepen ties with state authorities to boost the development of these key industries.
‎The agreement was executed by Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, representing the Federal Government, while Tomonialadeokuma Ishmael, Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, signed for Rivers State.
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‎Speaking at the signing event held at Government House in Port Harcourt, Governor Siminalayi Fubara highlighted that the pact fits into his administration’s goal to expand the state’s economy past basic infrastructure through strategic investments in hospitality and leisure.
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‎He pointed out that Rivers State is positioning itself as a top-tier tourist destination by capitalizing on its natural assets in Andoni and other regions.
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‎The governor mentioned that the groundwork for a robust tourism sector is already being laid, pointing to an ongoing public-private partnership project for a new tourist beach, with its first phase scheduled to open by December.
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‎Fubara added that the federal initiative complements ongoing state efforts, particularly the construction of the Oyorokoto Road in Andoni Local Government Area, which he noted is essential for unlocking local tourism potential.
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‎He explained that the new road will offer easier access to prominent coastal spots while exposing visitors to the area’s rich biodiversity.
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‎He also mentioned that recent online pictures showing elephants and other wildlife along the new road corridor highlight the area’s great ecotourism prospects.
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‎Fubara emphasized that economic development should not stop at physical projects like roads and hospitals, but must also concentrate on unlocking opportunities in tourism, entertainment, and hospitality.
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‎He noted that top global economies draw substantial revenues from tourism and hospitality, using locations such as Dubai, Spain, and Qatar as examples of how investing in leisure drives growth.
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‎“If we cannot go to Dubai, let us build our own Dubai in Rivers State. If we cannot go to Spain or Qatar, let us create our own tourism destination here,” the governor said.
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‎Governor Fubara reassured the minister that Rivers State would move beyond signing the document by showing tangible results within the next four months.
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‎He promised that federal officials would be invited back to launch completed projects that demonstrate the state’s dedication to the agreement.
‎The governor also commended the Federal Government for selecting Rivers State as a primary location for the Renewed Hope Cultural Project and pledged full support.
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‎He added that the effort aligns with Rivers State’s commitment to backing President Bola Tinubu’s economic diversification program by creating lasting investments for future generations.
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‎In her address, Minister Hannatu Musawa explained that President Bola Tinubu formed the ministry to spur economic diversification through arts, culture, tourism, and the creative economy, focusing on broadening opportunities and creating jobs.
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‎She stated that the Federal Government does not intend to work alone, but wants to form strategic partnerships with state governments to support current projects and maximize cultural assets.
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‎Musawa observed that Rivers State holds a strategic position in federal tourism plans due to its existing infrastructure, accessibility, and heritage.
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‎She referred to Rivers State as one of the nation’s “low-hanging fruits” for tourism growth, noting that international flight connections and current infrastructure place the state in a strong position to draw local and international travelers.
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‎The minister added that the Renewed Hope Cultural Project will serve as a framework to boost investments in arts, culture, and creative sectors while building on existing achievements in Rivers State.
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‎Musawa praised the state’s cultural diversity, pointing to the vibrant traditional dance performance that greeted her delegation, and expressed confidence that the partnership will turn Rivers State into a major cultural and creative hub.
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‎She assured that the Federal Government will work closely with Rivers State to develop programs capable of establishing the state as a top destination while advancing Nigeria’s goal of becoming Africa’s cultural and creative capital.
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