Ebonyi Tourism Commissioner proposes establishment of Tourism Satellite account to generate over N1 Billion, 14,000 jobs in Nigeria
By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
The Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Ebonyi State, Prince Stanley Ifeanyi Ogbuewu, has proposed the establishment of a Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) across the states of Nigeria as a strategic approach to boost revenue generation and create employment in the tourism sector.
Speaking to Standard Times Nigeria on the sidelines of the “Welcome to Nigeria Expo 2025” held at Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja on Thursday, July 24, Ogbuewu highlighted the enormous potential of tourism to transform the state’s economy.
Delivering his presentation at the Expo, themed “National Agenda on Tourism Partnership for Infrastructural Development, Institutional Linkages, Growth and Sustainable Development,” Ogbuewu revealed that Ebonyi State could generate over ₦1 billion annually and create at least 14,000 jobs through the proposed TSA model.
“The TSA is a globally approved framework by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for tracking and managing tourism-related revenue,” Ogbuewu said. “It will allow funds to be specifically channeled toward tourism development without relying solely on state allocations.”
He added that Ebonyi State is already primed for tourism growth, boasting over 40 tourism destinations, including Emmanuel Cave—a 4-kilometer-long cave with 14 natural water fountains connecting two villages—and the Apoyi Salt Lake, a culturally significant site believed to discourage enmity among women.
Prince Ogbuewu also noted that Ebonyi is home to multiple large lakes capable of supporting fishing festivals far larger than those currently celebrated elsewhere in the country. “We have lakes as long as three kilometers and up to one kilometer wide. With proper development, these can host world-class fishing festivals that can last more than a week,” he said.
On the benefits of the TSA, Ogbuewu stated:
“The Tourism Satellite Account will ensure transparency and sustainability. Staff salaries will be paid directly from the account, not the state government’s coffers, and the system will create long-term employment with pay aligned to national minimum wage standards.”
He further stressed the need for access roads and basic infrastructure to tourism sites, arguing that “seeing is believing” and that investors must be able to physically visit potential sites before committing to projects.
Ogbuewu emphasized that the TSA initiative is not a tax burden on the poor. Instead, it would involve a small tourism levy integrated into hospitality services—such as an additional ₦500 added to a hotel bill—which would then be deposited into the TSA.
“This initiative won’t clash with tax reforms. It’s not an extra tax for the masses but a structured fund generation tool. Those who use these services—tourists, business travelers, and upper-income groups—can easily support it without even feeling the impact.”
When asked who would manage the TSA, the commissioner clarified that it would fall under the Federal Ministry of Culture and Tourism, ensuring that all proceeds are used exclusively for tourism development.
Prince Ogbuewu concluded with a strong call to action:
“This is a wake-up call for all states. We must stop depending entirely on federal allocations or private investors. With initiatives like the TSA, we can take charge of our tourism development and unlock immense economic potential.”
Cross River Showcases Tourism Growth at ‘Welcome to Nigeria Expo 2025’
Cross River State took the spotlight at the “Welcome to Nigeria Expo 2025” held in Abuja, showcasing its commitment to boosting tourism through strategic investments and infrastructure development.
Speaking to Standard Times Nigeria at the event, the Director of Tourism for Cross River State, Mr. Dan Akele, expressed optimism about the state’s growing influence in Nigeria’s tourism sector. He attributed recent progress to the strong leadership of the state governor and the government’s focus on enhancing tourism infrastructure.
“We’re building on infrastructure, and I must commend the governor for doing so well in terms of tourism,” Akele stated. “Massive investments have been made, especially in preparation for the upcoming Calabar Carnival, which remains a major cultural and tourist attraction in Nigeria.”
Akele emphasized that Cross River is playing a leading role in revitalizing tourism across the country.
“Nigeria’s tourism is taking a leap from Cross River. As we continue to do well, I believe Nigeria’s tourism industry as a whole will thrive,” he said.
The “Welcome to Nigeria Expo 2025” brought together stakeholders from across the country to promote tourism, culture, and national heritage, with Cross River emerging as one of the key highlights of the event.
