Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike on Friday, March 15, that President Bola Tinubu has made the development of the tourism sector a priority.
Wike disclosed this when he commissioned a private-owned recreational facility called Sunrise Waterpark, located opposite Abacha barracks in the Asokoro district of Abuja.
The minister called on investors to invest and explore the largely untapped tourism potential that abounds in the nation’s capital.
Wike, who noted that Nigeria’s tourism sector has remained largely untapped, said President Bola Tinubu is desirous to see that the tourism sector is properly harnessed to create more jobs for the citizenry.
He said, “It is not a secret that the tourism sector in Nigeria has the potential to become one of the highest foreign exchange earners for the country. But sadly, the sector remained largely untapped and underdeveloped.
“The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda has made the development of the tourism sector a priority.”
The minister reiterated the readiness of the FCT Administration to continue to support the investment drive in Abuja, adding that having such a facility in FCT is a testament that FCT is committed to promoting ease of doing business for businesses to thrive.
He said such investments will help correct forex exchange capital flight.
“I have never gone to commission any project that is a private initiative. But for this one, I decided to commission it because of the importance of this particular water park. It is important for us to know that the commissioning of this Sunrise project is a testament to the vibrancy and potential of our beloved city, Abuja.
He described the event as epoch-making and also commended the NADEEM Group for their foresight in establishing such a gigantic world-class water park, which is said to be the largest in West Africa.
Wike, however, advised the group to make it affordable to encourage high patronage, even as he called on residents to always take out time to recreate to get themselves refreshed.
Chairperson of NADEEM Group, Nadia Nadeem, explained that the landscaping philosophy of the Waterpark was designed to showcase the unique beauty of Abuja.
She noted that the waterpark promises to create hundreds of jobs for Nigerians in many sectors, including tourism, hospitality, entertainment, transport, media, trade and commerce, real estate, and construction.
She said, “In the coming months, the waterpark is set to attract many economic activities into Abuja. It will attract foreigners from within Africa and throughout the world. This makes all of us partners in the progress of our lovely city, Abuja.
“In fact, it is one of the rare water parks in the world that is built on a hill and that offers spectacular views of the city. The architectural design displayed in the many attractions and restaurants at the Waterpark creates an unforgettable experience of vibrant fun and recreation for family members of all ages.
“Indeed, the Sunrise Waterpark is a blend of construction and architectural masterclass on the one hand and thoughtful recreation and hospitality experiences on the other.”
Among the top dignitaries at the event were former Vice President Namadi Sambo, former Nasarawa State Governor Tanko Almakura, former Governor of Delta State James Ibori, and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barnabas Gemade.
