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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Nigeria’s cultural wealth, diverse cuisine and varied natural landscapes can drive economic growth and boost international engagement, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu said on Tuesday during a meeting with Qatar’s ambassador to Nigeria.
Receiving Ambassador Yousef Bin Hassan Al‑Hail at the State House, Mrs. Tinubu framed tourism as more than leisure — calling it a strategic sector that creates jobs, showcases Nigerian identity and opens doors to foreign partnerships, according to a statement by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi.
“Nigeria’s tourism sector remains our strong point. It gives employment. Look at our food, culture,” the First Lady said. “We have not really explored the nation optimally. Our people are friendly, and our heritage can attract visitors and investment from around the world.”
She argued that promoting cultural attractions — from festivals and traditional arts to culinary tourism and coastal beaches — would stimulate local economies, especially for youth in creative and service industries. “When we invest in our culture and present it well, we create opportunities for small businesses, artisans and entertainers,” she said.
Mrs. Tinubu also highlighted ongoing collaborations with international partners in education and social development as complementary to tourism growth. She thanked Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, for supporting initiatives such as efforts to reduce the number of out‑of‑school children — projects the First Lady said strengthen communities that would ultimately host and benefit from tourism.
Ambassador Al‑Hail said his visit dispelled misconceptions about Nigeria he had seen on social media and affirmed Qatar’s interest in deeper cultural and economic ties.
“Nigeria is not what we hear and see on the social media. It is a beautiful country with wonderful people. I have been to Lagos, I have seen the beaches, it is a beautiful place,” he said. “I will work to build bridges between our countries so both can benefit.”
The ambassador presented a letter from Sheikha Moza bint Nasser to the First Lady, a gesture signalling continued cooperation in education and community development — areas the First Lady tied to the broader vision of making Nigeria an attractive destination for visitors and investors.
