Nigerians in Diaspora, Europe (Austrian Chapter), have recently called for a renewed dedication towards tourism development with a two day carnival to support the Federal and state governments in the development of Nigeria’s Tourism sector and proffering expert solutions to the challenges faced.
The whole of Vienna was held spellbound with one of Nigeria’s top tourism product, Adire Carnival, the event was attended by many stakeholders in tourism industry in Europe, Nigeria and other parts of the world, including representatives of Nigerian and European government agencies.
The Chairman of NIDOE Austria Chapter, Oluyemi Ogundele In his welcome remarks, thanked all the participants for gracing the occasion in spite of the difficulties encounter by many in obtaining Austrian visa. He then reminded all that the main aim and objective of the event was to showcase Nigeria’s tourism potentials, scout for investors and to recommend Nigeria as tourism destination. He informed the Diasporas in the hall that they were the main target group for investment and as tourist. “The over 20 million Diasporas could make a very big difference,’ he said.
The event was declared open by the Charge D’Affaire of Nigerian Embassy in Vienna, Gazing J.N. Dangtim, who pointed that Nigeria is naturally blessed with locations that could attract tourists from all over the globe.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora AbikeDabiri-Erewa, in a statement, thanked NIDOE for organising the event, describing it as a wonderful initiative to assist the federal government in her policy to diversify Nigeria’s economy.
Knowledge Management Expert, Dr Andreas Brandner, spoke of the need to apply the right knowledge to maximise the gains expected from the huge investment. He reiterated that no matter how much potentials Nigeria may possess in the tourism sector, it would amount to nothing if it is not well managed.
Kayode Obembe, a real estate and property businessman, who recounted his start-up story, invited Diasporas to come back home and invest in properties and own houses of their own as this would encourage them to visit home constantly together with their friends and families. He further listed locations in Nigeria where they could invest in properties with high dividend.
