Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) has commissioned a new tourism information desk at Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano State. The information point, established in collaboration with Viko Group of Companies Limited, is the latest addition to the three commissioned previously at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja, MM2 and the General Aviation Terminals of the Murtala Mohammed Airport, Lagos.
NTDC boss Mrs. Sally Uwechue Mabnefo said Kano State is one of the tourism friendly states and also a major tourism hub and gateway in Nigeria. “This is why NTDC found it strategically important to establish the tourism information desk and travel portal at the Aminu Kano International airport.” She noted that the information desk is part of the Corporation’s initiative to promote domestic tourism. In 2013 when appointed as DG, Mbanefo said promotion of domestic tourism would be the focus of her administration.
So far, the DG has visited states with major tourism assets and has signed MOU with tourism stakeholders with a view to developing tourism in local communities. The list of partners includes the Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN), National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), ABC Transport, Arik Airline, Reddington Hospital, Visa, Heritage Bank, Turkish Nigeria Chamber and others.
Mbanefo decried a situation where tourism only contributes 4 percent to the Nigeria GDP whereas the sector contributes 17.7 percent to the Gambia GDP, 13 percent to Egypt, 9 percent to South Africa, 11.9 percent to Mexico, 12 percent to Kenya, 7.8 percent to Brazil and 6 percent to Cuba. Lauding Viko for its partnership in the promotion of domestic tourism, Mbanefo appealed to other stakeholders to join forces with the Corporation.
“Tourism is a private sector activity which must be driven also by the private sector and not just the government,” she said. During a visit to the Emir of Kano, Sanusi Muhammad II, the Emir commended the efforts of the NTDC boss in repositioning NTDC and the milestones achieved within a short time so far. “We acknowledge your sound mind, clear understanding of the tourism sector and your passion for promoting domestic tourism even in the face of challenges,” the Emir said.