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From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
Tourism and culture promoter, Dr. Uche Emmanuel Chinonso, has called on governors in Northern Nigeria to strategically harness the region’s vast tourism potential as a driver of economic growth, cultural preservation and national development.
In an open letter addressed to northern governors, stakeholders, traditional leaders and development partners, Chinonso said the region occupies a unique and indispensable place in the country’s history, culture and future.
According to him, northern Nigeria is home to ancient civilisations, historic trade routes, vast landscapes, wildlife reserves, distinctive architecture, festivals and deeply rooted traditions, which he described as powerful but largely under-utilised assets.
He stressed that tourism had evolved beyond leisure into a strategic economic sector capable of generating employment, revitalising local economies and strengthening social cohesion.
He explained that tourism development at the state level could create jobs for youths and women in sectors such as hospitality, tour guiding, crafts, transportation and other services.
He also said that it could revitalise historic cities, towns and rural communities, while supporting local enterprises, farmers, artisans and the creative industry.
The expert noted that tourism offers economic value without depleting land, mineral or oil resources while strengthening cultural pride and promoting the transfer of knowledge from one generation to another.
At the regional level, he advocated a coordinated tourism strategy that would link Northern states through heritage, religious, cultural and ecological tourism corridors.
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“Such collaboration,” he said: “would promote travel and trade within the region, encourage infrastructure development beneficial to both residents and visitors and improve the North’s image through organised storytelling and branding. Nigeria’s story is incomplete without the North.”
He highlighted the national significance of tourism development in the region, saying it would help diversify the country’s economy, preserve important heritage sites, strengthen domestic tourism and enhance Nigeria’s global image.
He acknowledged security concerns, infrastructure gaps and perception challenges affecting the region, but argued that tourism could also contribute to addressing these issues.
According to him, the sector could create livelihoods that reduce vulnerability, encourage communities to take ownership of tourism assets, attract development-focused investments and promote positive narratives that inspire confidence.
Chinonso further emphasised that effective tourism development requires strong leadership and collaboration among governments, communities and investors.
He, therefore, called for the development of clear tourism master plans, improved safety and visitor confidence, stronger partnerships with traditional institutions and local communities and increased private sector investment in tourism infrastructure.
He urged Northern governors to formally recognise tourism as a strategic development sector and integrate it into broader economic planning.
“The future of Nigerian tourism must be inclusive, regional and intentional,” he said.
