Oluremi Tinubu Canvasses Greater Investment in Tourism, Strengthens Nigeria-Qatar Partnership

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called for greater investment in the country’s tourism sector, describing it as a major driver of economic growth, job creation and national development.

She made the call on Tuesday while receiving the Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Nigeria, Yousef Bin Mohammed Al-Hail, at the State House, Abuja.

According to the First Lady, Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, diverse cuisine, natural attractions and hospitable people position the country as a leading tourism destination that remains largely untapped.

She urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to explore the country’s tourism potential and harness the opportunities it offers for employment and wealth creation.

“We have not really explored the nation optimally. Our tourism sector remains our strong point. It gives employment. Look at our food and culture. We are a friendly people,” she said.

Senator Tinubu acknowledged that Nigeria faces challenges but noted that such issues are not unique to the country, expressing confidence in the administration’s efforts to address them.

She said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to overcoming the nation’s challenges and delivering sustainable development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The First Lady also commended the Chairperson of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, for her support to African countries, particularly in the education sector.

She expressed appreciation for the growing partnership between Nigeria and Qatar, citing positive feedback from the Federal Ministry of Education on collaborative efforts aimed at tackling the challenge of out-of-school children.

Speaking during the visit, Qatar’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef Bin Mohammed Al-Hail, said his perception of Nigeria had changed significantly since arriving in the country.

He disclosed that he initially arrived with concerns shaped by negative narratives on social media but had since discovered Nigeria to be a peaceful and welcoming nation.

“Nigeria is not what we hear and see on social media. It is a beautiful country with wonderful people. I have been to Lagos and seen the beaches. It is a beautiful place,” the ambassador said.

He pledged to continue strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Qatar for the mutual benefit of both countries.

During the visit, Ambassador Al-Hail also presented a letter from the Chairperson of the Qatar Foundation, Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, to the First Lady.