My dear Nigeria, you have done well harnessing some opportunities from your waterways via oil exploration, shipping etc. These industries have contributed heavily to your economy in several ways. Examples are Job creation, exportation, importation, infrastructure development, revenue generation and other ways.
But my dear Nigeria, your waterways are beautiful, your riverbanks are amazing, your riverine communities are unique and your green areas along your waterways are worth seeing.
Hey Nigeria, people want to sail on your waterways for relaxation. I said people want to see those riverine communities. Yes off course, people would pay to sail on your waterways while they create lifelong memories snapping pictures and creating videos. Less I forget, these tourists may be opportune to see those dolphins I once saw at sea.
MY DEAR NIGERIA, LET’S DO THE FOLLOWING
- Let’s look into tourism in the marine sector
- You can start establishing policies that would attract investors and startups in this industry. A mutual economic policy to investors and nation is a driving force for economic growth.
- Let’s begin to tell the world that we have amazing waterways and that they can also have a fulfilled tourism on our waterways. Our actions as a nation in this area will pass a positive message to the outside world.
- Don’t be shy about the pollution on some of our waterways. Because our waterways can be cleaned. Cleanliness is inevitable as a country becomes prosperous.
- Don’t worry about those challenges you think would hinder investors from considering this area (eg safety & security). They are solvable problems. Once the industry starts booming, investors/ stakeholders will invest into security and safety.
My dear Nigeria, Once again, I know that you have a whole lot of challenges on your table. However, this shouldn’t stop you from looking into this because of the enormous opportunities therein in a long run.
