From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
Expert in the tourism sector, Dr Tobi Bernard Thomas has called for the establishment of tourism policing as a pinnacle to the lingering security challenges in the country.
Dr. Thomas, while addressing a press conference in Kafanchan on Tuesday disclosed that the establishment of tourism police will surely assist in the maintenance of peace and order in high tourist traffic areas.
This is just as he opined that an office assistance desk for tourist police be established in such areas, as it will enhance economic growth by augmenting the foreign exchange reserves of the nation.
The call for the establishment of tourism police is coming a few days after the Kaduna state Governor, Uba Sani said state policing was the solution to the lingering security challenges confronting the state and the country at large.
Speaking on Channels TV, Sani reiterated his stance, noting that he had been advocating for state police for the past six months. He commended other governors who have shown support by either establishing or empowering vigilance services.
In his speech, the expert added that cultural, adventure, beach, eco, medical, and wildlife tourism can help to stimulate investments in new infrastructure, and human capital and promote the industrial development of the country.
According to him, in developing countries, tourism development has been used as an important strategy for increasing economic growth, alleviating poverty, creating jobs, and improving food security.
