Preparations are complete for a two-day workshop aimed at tourism professionals and entrepreneurs, scheduled for November 28 – 29, 2024, in Enugu, the capital of Enugu State.
During a press briefing in Enugu yesterday, Mrs. Chioma Obi, the Enugu State Chairperson of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) and the event’s convener, announced that the workshop is being organized by Jands Travel Business School in partnership with the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA) and NANTA.
Obi explained that the workshop, titled “Exploring a Synergy to Boost Business & Entrepreneurship,” will take place at the ECCIMA Hall, ECCIMA Secretariat, Enugu, starting daily at 9 a.m.
The event has received endorsements from Hon. Barr. Dame Ugochi Madueke, Enugu State Commissioner for Culture & Tourism, and the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA).
She encouraged members of the public, including industry experts, entrepreneurs, and key figures in the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors, to attend this insightful event, which promises networking, educational opportunities, cultural displays, and the chance to enhance domestic tourism in Eastern Nigeria.
“Explore ways to grow your business through tourism. Connect with professionals and entrepreneurs. Discover how to profit from selling Nigerian tour packages and anticipate the future of tourism in Nigeria,” she added.
Obi emphasized that attendance is free, but registration is required.
“Register now to secure your spot using the link: https://bit.ly/JTBStourismworkshop,” she concluded.
Also speaking, ECCIMA President Sir Odeiga Jideonwu highlighted their commitment to aligning with the Enugu State Government’s vision of increasing the state’s GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion. He expressed their readiness to collaborate with any organization that promotes business growth in Enugu State.
“We believe hosting large-scale events in the Eastern Zone, especially in Enugu, will bring substantial commercial benefits. The hospitality industry in Enugu stands to gain significantly from this influx of visitors,” he stated.
“The surge in attendees boosts the demand for local accommodations, restaurants, and transportation services, generating substantial revenue for hotels, eateries, and taxi operators. Retail businesses, from shopping centers to local markets, will see increased sales as visitors buy goods and souvenirs. Additionally, exposure to new customers can lead to long-term business relationships and investments, as many attendees return for leisure or business.
“Such events invigorate the hospitality and tourism sectors, paving the way for future events and enhancing Enugu’s standing as a prime investment destination. This economic activity results in higher government revenues and increased employment opportunities within the state.
“Ultimately, I believe this workshop will uncover untapped opportunities in Enugu’s tourism subsector, potentially leading to the development of new tourist sites and further boosting the state’s GDP.”
Echoing the sentiments of his ECCIMA and JANDS counterparts, NANTA National President Mr. Olayinka Folami deemed the workshop timely and relevant.
Reiterating the workshop’s theme, “Exploring a Synergy to Boost Business & Entrepreneurship,” he indicated it will facilitate discussions on how to harness tourism for business growth across the country.
“Anticipated outcomes from the workshop include insightful deliberations that will invigorate the hospitality and tourism sectors nationwide,” he concluded.
Expected speakers at the event include Chief Ben Etiaba (Principal Partner, Ben Etiaba & Co. Chartered Accountants), Barrister Mrs. Patricia Igwebuike (Hon. Commissioner, Transportation, Anambra State), Olayinka Folami (National President, NANTA), Sir Odeiga Jideonwu (President, ECCIMA), Chioma Obi (Director, Jands Travel Business School, Enugu), and Mr. Ayodeji Awomoyi (Principal Executive, Flyzone Tourism).
