By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
Taraba State Government has signed Memorandum of Understanding MoU with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy for the development of a tourism village in the state.
The agreement was formalized on Sunday at Harmony Hotel in Takum, Taraba State, marking a significant step toward boosting tourism and economic growth in the region.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, held in Takum the Minister stated that the initiative aligns with the broader economic agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to diversify Nigeria’s economy.
According to her, the project is part of ongoing efforts to expand the nation’s economic base by leveraging sectors where Nigeria holds comparative advantages, particularly tourism, culture, and the creative industry.
She noted that Taraba State possesses vast tourism potential, highlighting its rich cultural diversity and natural attractions.
Hannatu Musa Musawa also commended the vision of Governor Agbu Kefas, describing it as consistent with the President’s development goals.
She explained that while the state government would take the lead in managing the tourism business, the Federal Government would provide the necessary support to ensure its success.
The Minister further revealed that the MoU was initiated by the President and expressed optimism that implementation would commence before the end of the year.
According to her, the initiative aligns with the broader economic agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to diversify Nigeria’s economy.
“The project is part of ongoing efforts to expand the nation’s economic base by tapping into sectors where Nigeria holds comparative advantages, particularly tourism, culture, and the creative industry.
“Taraba State possesses vast tourism potential, highlighting its rich cultural diversity and natural attractions.
“Let me use this medium commend the vision of Governor Agbu Kefas, describing it as being in alignment with the President’s development goals.
She explained that while the state government would take the lead in managing the tourism business, the Federal Government would provide the necessary support to ensure its success.
The Minister further revealed that the MoU was initiated by the President and expressed optimism that implementation would commence before the end of the year.
In his remarks, Governor Agbu Kefas expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for appointing Musawa as Minister, assuring her of the state government’s full support and cooperation.
He described tourism as a vital non kinetic approach to addressing insecurity, noting that it can foster peace, unity, and economic stability.
Also speaking, the State Commissioner for Heritage and Ecotourism Joseph Titus Nagombe, said the project would significantly contribute to the development of Taraba State.
He added that a suitable location for the tourism village has already been identified.
The planned tourism village is expected to stimulate local economic activities, create jobs, and position Taraba as a key destination in Nigeria’s tourism landscape.
The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, signed on behalf of the Federal Government, while the Taraba State Commissioner for Heritage and Ecotourism, Hon. Joseph Titus Nagombe, signed on behalf of the state government.