As the Global Tourism Promoter and Executive Director of Tourism Volunteers Network in Nigeria, I, Amb. Phil Roberts, understand the frustrations driving the protest. The economic hardships, fuel scarcity, and suffering of our people are undeniable. However, I urge our citizens to prioritize peaceful protest methods, ensuring the tourism industry, a vital economic driver, remains unscathed.
The #EndSARS protests and Kenya’s Gen Z protests have shown us the devastating impact of violent demonstrations on tourism. We cannot afford to repeat this mistake. Our tourism sector, still recovering from the pandemic, is a significant employer and revenue generator. Let us safeguard it.
While we acknowledge the grievances fueling the #EndBadGovernance protest, we must recognize the long-term consequences of destructive protests. Tourism is a fragile industry, and negative perceptions can linger, deterring visitors and investors.
I appeal to our youth to adopt peaceful protest strategies, such as:
– Dialogue with government representatives
– Petitions and social media campaigns
– Non-violent demonstrations
By doing so, we can:
– Protect our tourism industry and its benefits
– Showcase our resilience and commitment to peaceful coexistence
– Attract international support and investment
Let us channel our frustrations into constructive actions, advocating for change without compromising our economic future. I urge all stakeholders to prioritize peace and civility during the protest.
Together, we can create a better Nigeria, where tourism thrives, and our people prosper.
