From Magnus Eze, Abuja
The new Acting Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Dr. Paul Adalikwu, is proposing that the Federal Government renames the corporation the Nigerian Tourism Authority, in line with best global practices in the sector.
Speaking at his inaugural meeting with NTDC staff at the headquarters in Abuja, he assured them of his determination to reposition the industry, the corporation as well as revive the Presidential Council on Tourism (PCT).
Adalikwu, who promised to engage stakeholders for improved funding of the sector and the corporation, mentioned capacity building through staff training, welfare and improved collaborations with the private sector as areas of priority.
He said: “We shall work with the National Assembly, all other stakeholders to restore NTDC’s lost grounds, to enable the corporation move tourism in the country to the next level.
“We shall engage and partner with state governors who are serious to develop tourism in their states, while I will ensure that all NTDC’s zonal offices are positioned to deliver on the corporation’s mandate.”
While disclosing his intention to work on getting a befitting corporate office for the corporation, the NTDC boss said he would establish more departments in the corporation to enable the agency deliver on its core mandate.
“If you have ideas on how to advance the Nigerian tourism, come to me,” he enjoined the staff.