NIG-BENTF 2024 :Tourism has Potential to Foster Prosperity between Nigeria and Benin- Amb. Saidu Tiggi
Cotonou
In a recent address at the Nigeria-Benin Tourism Forum held at the Benin Royal Hotel in Cotonou, His Excellency Saidu N. Tiggi, Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, who was the Special Guest of Honour, highlighted the significant role tourism could play in enhancing mutual prosperity between Nigeria and Benin. The forum, themed “Harnessing Tourism Potential for Mutual Development,” provided a platform for discussing ways to leverage tourism as a driver of economic growth and cultural exchange between the two neighboring countries.
Ambassador Tiggi emphasized the vast tourism potential that exists in both nations and underscored how a well-structured tourism strategy could lead to shared prosperity. He described his experiences traveling across Benin, noting the cultural similarities between the northern regions of Benin and Nigeria, as well as the unique attractions of the southern parts of Benin. His observations underscored the rich cultural and historical ties that bind the two countries, which could be further explored through tourism initiatives.
A key aspect of Ambassador Tiggi’s speech was his call for increased collaboration in tourism initiatives. He specifically mentioned the Argungun Fishing Festival, an internationally renowned event held annually in Kebbi State, Nigeria, his home state. He suggested that similar cultural festivals and events could be used to promote tourism and foster deeper connections between Nigeria and Benin.
The Ambassador expressed his gratitude to the organizers of the Nigeria-Benin Tourism Forum and promised to bring the discussions and recommendations from the forum to the attention of Nigeria’s tourism ministry. He assured the attendees of the Embassy’s commitment to supporting and advancing the tourism agenda, ensuring that the forum’s outcomes are integrated into both national and international tourism strategies.
His Excellency, Saidu N. Tiggi, Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin (Centre left) with other tourism dignitaries at the event in Cotonou.
he forum was attended by a diverse group of prominent tourism stakeholders, too numerous to mention, but included: Amb. Ikechi Uko, Founder and Convener of the Akwaaba African Travel Market; Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria; Amb. Dine Bouraima, President of Consortium Touristes par Millions au Bénin; Mr. Luc Atrokpo, Mayor of Cotonou; and Mr. Aristide Ajibodou, General Secretary of the Benin Ministry in Charge of Tourism Affairs. Their presence underscored the collaborative spirit and shared commitment to advancing tourism in both countries.
The discussions at the forum reflected a shared vision of leveraging tourism to bridge cultural divides, enhance bilateral relations, and drive economic development. With continued cooperation and focused efforts, Nigeria and Benin have the potential to create a robust tourism sector that benefits both nations economically and culturally.
Nigeria Benin Tourism Forum is an initiative of Kalo Africa Media and Exparts Partner in partnership with Consortium Touristes Par Millions au Bénin and the African Tourism Board.
