In furtherance of its determination to ensure promotion and development of the tourism sector, Ogun State government has assured investors of investing more in security, for the state to become a destination of choice for all. 

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, who gave this assurance at the 2024 World Tourism Day celebration, with the theme, "Tourism and Peace",  at Herbert Ogunde Hall, Cultural Center, Kuto, Abeokuta, said peace must prevail before tourism could flourish. 

"It is because of this our administration will continue to invest in security, infrastructure and human capital development. We will make sure the state is safe and become a destination of choice for all", he said. 

The governor, represented by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said tourism has the potential to create job, promote unity and sustainable peace, calling on investors to partner with the state, to further develop the sector. 

Delivering the speech of the Secretary General, United Nations, António Guterres, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Olusesan Fagbayi, said the theme for the 2024 World Tourism Day, was carefully chosen to  reflect on the profound connection between tourism and peace, as tourism brings people of diverse cultures together. 

The United Nation's Secretary General added that appreciating and preserving cultural and natural heritage could help reduce tensions and nurture peaceful coexistence globally. 

In his keynote address, Chairman,  House Committee on  Culture and Tourism, Hon. Olusegun Kaka,  stated that tourism and peace were intertwined, reiterating that tourism builds peace and engender good relationship among communities, stressing that by embracing responsible tourism, the society would cultivate a more harmonious, empathetic world and  build a safe future for all. 

In his paper titled, "Tourism and Peace: A Pathway to Global Harmony and Economic Prosperity", a lecturer in the Department of Hospitality and Tourism, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Dr. Kukoyi Ibrahim,  highlighted  the importance of tourism in building a more inclusive and peaceful world by embracing sustainable and responsible tourism practices, fostering cultural exchange, as well as  supporting economic development in order to  harness the power of tourism to create a better future for all. 

He commended the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led government for joining  the rest of the world  to celebrate the annual event, noting that it was a sign of the government's commitment to promoting tourism to an enviable height in the state. 

Also delivering a paper titled, "Tourism and Economic Development",  Chief Executive Officer, First Heritage Culture and Hospitality Limited,  Prince Abiola Ogundeko,  pointed out that tourism could  generate revenue, create jobs and preserve our cultural heritage, adding that focusing on cultural tourism, eco-tourism, and religious tourism, alongside strategic investments in infrastructure and marketing, it could help to  unlock tourism potential. 

Earlier, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Yusuff Quudus, stated that this year’s theme underscored the indispensable role tourism plays in ensuring understanding, cooperation and harmony among nations and cultures,   affirming that tourism has the unique ability to bridge divides, break barriers and promote peaceful coexistence. 

He described the Day as a time to reflect on the profound impact tourism has on  societies, economically, socially and culturally.   

In his words, "The Ministry of Culture and Tourism remains committed to harnessing the power of tourism to build a more united, peaceful and prosperous society. As we celebrate this World Tourism Day, let us all reaffirm our commitment to using tourism as a tool for peace. Together, we can create a future where travel opens doors to understanding, empathy and global harmony".