The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), and the Republic of the Gambia, have renewed billaterial commitment to forster ties on tourism sector of both countries.
This commitment was made when a Gambian delegation led by Hon. Yakubu Darboe paid a
courtesy Chairman of the Brikama Area Council, Western Region paid a courtesy visit to NTDA in Abuja.
Hon. Darboe disclosed that the aim of the visit was to sell the Gambian local tourism potentials to Nigeria.
The delegation was received by Mr. Richard Ovie Esewhaye, Director overseeing the Office of the Director General, NTDA, and the Management Staff at the Authority’s headquarters in Abuja.
In his remarks, Hon. Darboe said that the long standing relationship between the two countries is due to the cultural and historical ties between both nations.
He noted that tourism is the backbone of The Gambia’s economy.
He emphasized the importance of the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol, stating that West African countries have much to learn from one another in terms of culture, investment opportunities, and tourism development.
“Nigeria, with its large population, presents a ready market for Gambian tourism, and we urge NTDA to include The Gambia when recommending travel destinations,” he added.
Mr. Esewhaye, in his response, welcomed the delegation and lauded the existing relationship between the NTDA and the Gambia Tourism Board.
He recalled past engagements, including meetings with the Gambia Investment Forum, and highlighted the need to move beyond agreements rethorics to tangible outcomes.
“Though small in size, The Gambia has made remarkable progress in tourism. Nigeria can learn from their model—particularly in revenue generation, cultural exchange, and capacity building,” he said.
Hon. Darboe also advocated for the establishment of a technical committee to identify concrete areas of collaboration, Hon. Darboe stated.
Also speaking , Director of Special Duties, NTDA, Mr. Abumba raised concerns about the current lack of direct air connectivity between Nigeria and The Gambia.
He noted that establishing direct flights between the two countries would enhance air traffic which would improve bilateral tourism relations.
There was a presentation of an Outstanding Leadership and Humanitarian Award to Mr. Esewhaye by Hon. Darboe.
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