Date: July 9, 2024
Abuja, Nigeria – Global tourism promoter and Executive Director of Tourism Volunteers Network, Amb. Phil Roberts, has stepped in to mediate between Senators Godswill Akpabio and Mohammed Ali Ndume over the chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Tourism.
Amb. Roberts, known for his passion for tourism development in Nigeria, has expressed concern over the recent appointment of Senator Ndume as Chairman of the Committee on Tourism, citing his rejection of the position and lack of experience in the tourism sector.
The tourism promoter, who recently trekked from Abuja to Delta State to promote Nigeria’s tourism investment potentials, has been vocal about the need for a competent and experienced chairman to lead the committee. He has also expressed the dissatisfaction of millions of tourism volunteers in and outside Nigeria, who feel that tourism is being treated as a political settlement rather than a vital sector for economic growth.
Amb. Roberts has urged the Nigerian Senate to reconsider their decision and choose a chairman with a proven track record in tourism development. He warned that the wrong appointment could hinder the growth of the sector, which is now considered the “next oil” of Nigeria.
In a statement, Amb. Roberts said, “We cannot afford to have a chairman who is not passionate about tourism leading the committee. We need someone who understands the industry and can drive growth and development. I am willing to lead a protest to the National Assembly with other global tourism promoters if necessary.”
The development comes as Senator Ndume rejected the chairmanship offer, stating that he is not a tourist and has no experience in tourism. Amb. Roberts believes that this is an opportunity for the Senate to reevaluate their decision and choose a more suitable candidate.
The tourism industry in Nigeria is watching with keen interest as the drama unfolds, hoping for a resolution that will promote the growth and development of the sector.