Tourism development without forest enhancement, incomplete- Expert
The Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development has urged all levels of government to prioritise forest enhancement in tourism development strategies.
Mr Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director-General of the bureau, made the call in a statement on Monday, in Lagos.
Ojo-Lanre said that forest enhancement could be considered an aspect of tourism attraction, where government could derive huge revenue from, if properly groomed, just as done in other climes.
To work on forest enhancement, he said that collaborative effort was required with government agencies, local communities, and private sector stakeholders to develop and implement forest enhancement strategies.
According to him, this includes activities such as reforestation, afforestation, sustainable forest management and further establishment of protected areas.
He said that raising awareness about the importance of forests and promoting responsible tourism practices among visitors were essential steps in ensuring the success of these efforts.
“Tourism, a multifaceted industry, significantly contributes to the socio-economic growth of regions worldwide. It encompasses a variety of activities, including cultural, historical and natural attractions.
“Among these, natural attractions often hold a special allure, drawing visitors with the promise of serene landscapes, diverse wildlife and immersive experiences in nature.
“However, the development of tourism is incomplete without a critical component forest enhancement.
According to him, forests, often referred to as the lungs of the earth, play a pivotal role in sustaining life and maintaining ecological balance.
He said that they were not merely a backdrop for tourism activities but were integral to the health and appeal of any tourist destination.
“Enhancing and preserving forests can yield numerous benefits for tourism development.
“Forests serve as a major draw for ecotourism. Travellers increasingly seek destinations that offer authentic natural experiences.
“Forests provide opportunities for activities such as hiking, bird watching, wildlife safaris, and camping. These activities not only attract tourists but also promote environmental awareness and conservation efforts.
“By enhancing forest areas, we can create more appealing and sustainable ecotourism products that cater to this growing market segment,” he said.
The DG noted that forests contribute to the aesthetic value of tourist destinations. Scenic beauty, characterised by lush greenery, diverse flora, and fauna, enhances the overall visitor experience.
He said that well-preserved and enhanced forest areas could significantly boost the visual appeal of a state, making it more attractive to tourists.
He explained that this, in turn, could lead to increased visitor numbers, longer stays, and higher tourist spending, all of which benefit local economies.
“Forests play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change, which poses a significant threat to tourism.
“Climate change can alter weather patterns, disrupt ecosystems, and affect the availability of natural resources, all of which can negatively impact tourism.
“By investing in forest enhancement, we can help sequester carbon, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance the resilience of natural landscapes to climate change.
“This not only protects the environment but also ensures the long-term sustainability of tourism destinations,” he said.
Ojo-Lanre commended Ekiti State Government’s move of integrating forest enhancement into its tourism development plans.
“It is on this note that I commend the governor of Ekiti state, Biodun Oyebanji, for his determined strides at prioritising forests enhancement in Ekiti by his impregnable support for the Ekiti State Forest Commission.
“Also, it is noteworthy to inform the world that the Ekiti State Forest Commission has designated 10 areas of compelling unique fauna and flora as Ekiti State Forest Conservation Areas.
“These 10 areas are being specifically groomed as ecotourism , heritage and cultural tourism centers which would be formally christened for appreciation and global patronage.
“Tourism development without forest enhancement is an incomplete process. Forests are indispensable to the attractiveness, sustainability, and resilience of tourism destinations.
“By prioritising forest enhancement, we can create richer, more diverse tourism experiences that benefit both visitors and local communities,” he said.
