THISDAY

Improvemen­t in Tourism Will Boost Events Industry, Says Moses

- Tosin Clegg

AOwingrece­nt surge in the tourism sector of some African countries, during the AFCON 2023

WRXUQDPHQW VKRZHG D VLJQLÀFDQW boost for the events industry of those countries.

to that, popular Master of Ceremonies, media profession­al and TV Host, Adeyemo Moses, widely known as SimplyMhos­es believes that the Nigerian event VSDFH FRXOG EHQHÀW IURP VLPLODU XQIROGLQJ G\QDPLFV in the immediate and near future if the tourism sector was positioned and given more attention.

“When people travel, they aren’t just looking for sights; they’re seeking experience­s. And what better way to immerse in a culture than through events?” Moses said.

The native of Osun who has mastered the art of occasion and media, dazzling at functions and interviewi­ng esteemed personalit­ies added, “Events are the soul of tourism, and everyone knows that no one does socials like Nigeria.”

He elaborated while reminiscin­g about the events that took him beyond Nigerian borders, revealing the incredible potential for cross-pollinatio­n between industries.

“With increased travel, there’s a heightened demand for events that tell a story, that celebrate uniqueness and diversity,” Adeyemo emphasised.

The linkage between tourism and the events industry is akin to a marriage where both parties can thrive from each other’s success.

Tourism opens the gates for various types of events: from festivals that celebrate local culture, to internatio­nal conference­s, and everything in between.

With landmarks such as the Zuma Rock, the mystical charm of Osun Sacred Forest, and the bustling cityscapes of places like Lagos and Abuja, the nation has an attractive mosaic of culture and beauty that beckons worldwide explorers.

“The trend is clear; tourism in Nigeria can sprint ahead,” he enthused.

Much like the tourist hotspots, Nigeria’s event industry exhibits unrivalled potential. Events like the Lagos Theater Festival, Ake Book Festival, and Calabar Carnival beckon tourists from afar, RͿHULQJ D WDVWH RI WKH ULFK 1LJHULDQ FXOWXUH IXUWKHU illuminati­ng Adeyemo’s point of convergenc­e for both sectors.

Adeyemo’s perspectiv­e stems from his substantia­l local and internatio­nal experience, where he has witnessed the transforma­tion of local events into global spectacles and the increase in social currency, perception and economy. These are the sorts of experience­s that could put a place on the map, not just as a destinatio­n but also as a hub of vibrant cultural exchange.

As a graduate of Graphics Arts, Creativity is at the heart of Moses’ proposed solutions.

“We must innovate our way into a robust events industry that can ride the tourism wave,” he said.

This includes developing event packages that integrate local tourism activities to internatio­nal VWDQGDUGV RͿHULQJ D KROLVWLF H[SHULHQFH WR YLVLWRUV

Global observatio­n comes into play as he highlighte­d best practices from countries that have married tourism and events successful­ly.

 ?? ?? Adeyemo Moses
Adeyemo Moses

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