Connect with us

Opinion

Rivers State As Tourist Haven

Published

12 years ago

on

Tourism has been known to be a major foreign exchange
earner in many developing countries . Indeed most of these countries depend on tourism and have been able to broaden their resource base through the development of the industry. In Kenya, tourism has displaced coffee and horticultural produce as their country’s leading export earnings as it has in Costa Rica.
Tourism development played the major role in Botswana’s graduation from Least Developed Country (LDCS) status and has been vital in Cuba’s economy since 1990 when Russian economic support was reduced.
Tourism has developed into a worldwide activity which accounts for over 40 per cent of province of Alberta in Canada’s economy, encourages higher standard of living and generates increase cash flow with the local business, thereby enhancing the economy of the state.
Tourism income assisted the Caribbean Island’s economics. China’s adoption of tourism as a means of economis development is enabling it to attain very high rate of economic growth in targeted areas.
In Nigeria, the Federal Government in its determined efforts to develop and promote tourism into an economically viable industry had in 1991 evolved a tourism policy. The main thrust of the policy is to make Nigeria a prominent tourism destination in Africa, generate foreign exchange, encourage even development, and foster socio-cultural unity among the various regions of the country through the promotion of domestic and international tourism. It also aims at encouraging active private sector participation in tourism development.
Rivers State, because of its rich potential in tourism, has been described as a land of variety and contrast. What with the thick mangrove swamps, extended and roomy river, ocean beaches ideal for swimming and other water sports, unique wildlife, vast tracts of unspoiled nature ranging from tropical forest, and good climate conditions in the State conducive to holidaying.
Other attractions include traditional way of life preserved in local customs, rich and varied handicrafts and other colourful products illustrative of native arts and lifestyle, Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt, Slave Transit Hall at Akasa, Akasa, Raid Grave Yard, Monument of King Jaja of Opobo, Ifoko Beach, Port Harcourt Tourist Beach, the Water Glass Boat yard, the Oil Terminal at Bonny and the Petroleum Refinery at Alesa Eleme.
Thus, the weather, wildlife, historical relics, captivating beaches coupled with the warm hearted and cultural active population make Rivers State an interesting tourism delight.
Indeed,  Rivers State is a fertile ground for both local and foreign tourist desirous to visit her tourist attractions in order to appreciate the extent to which nature has blessed her.
The scenery of the state is lovely and peculiar in nature. A trip round the town tells it all, as it can be assessed by road and by sea. The scenery is captivating.
Rivers State is also very rich with social amenities and infrastructures such as good roads, electricity, hotels, beaches, zoo and parks. There are clubs like Lesuka and Casablanca for relaxation and fun.
In spite of the hustle and bustle within the city metropolis, the Rivers people take life easy. We love to celebrate, to party and have fun. Every occasion is an excuse to unwind and share unforgettable moments with friends and family. There
The tourism prospect in Rivers State is great  the Amaechi administration has made Rivers State a tourism haven, taking advantage of the rich culture of the State.
In pursuance of this, government sponsors the Annual CARNIRIV featuring the 23 Local Government Areas and other participants. Some of the striking features of CARNIRIV are the cultural carnival and the Old Port Harcourt Groove, the biggest party in Africa.
Another festival of note is the Annual Opobo International Boat Regatta and Cultural festival; a little insight into the history of Bonny, Okrika, Ikwerre, Ogba, Opobo, Ogoni, will increase one’s interest to study the people of Rivers State along side their culture which is still kept till date. The culture of introduction into womanhood is called IRIA in Kalabari. The boat regattas, beautiful dance steps and masquerading, not to talk of the special Rivers meal with fresh fish and other sea foods fresh from the water.
Other factors that attract tourists to the state are the hospitality of the people. It is often said that there are people who possess the gift of hospitality. Rivers people can be classified in this category because of the effortless way they express hospitality and love. There is something in the atmosphere in Port Harcourt that creates a gracious hospitality spirit. Nowhere do we feel so much at home than in Port Harcourt. And though the city may have none of the imposing magnificence of renowned great cities of the world, it is often far more charming.
Rivers people are courteous and warm. It is not uncommon to be offered warm delicious meal on your first visit to a home.  Opening our doors to strangers is simply our way of life. No wonder the state is called a home of hospitality.
However, many of these tourist attractions in the state are still largely untapped and at their raw states because the State government had not addressed or put in place policy that will effectively promote tourism and project the state to the outside world.
The Rivers State Government should as a matter of urgency ensure the provision of basic infrastructural facilities, namely good roads, water, electricity, communication, etc to centres of attraction in order to accelerate their development for the purpose of exploiting fully their tourist value.
Government should also provide without any hindrance, lands for tourism development at concessional rates and condition favourable to investment and the realization of investment thereon. This will necessarily include the abolition of annual ground rent within the period of construction and development, for orderly development of tourism and tourism product, and let it be mandatory for government to demarcate potential tourism zones and their products from other usage to avoid undue pollution.
In order to host the level of private sector investment in tourism, government should treat tourism as a preferred sector by introducing such incentives as tax holidays, tax rebate and soft loans with long period moratorium to potential investors in tourism.
In order to reduce dependence on government subvention and enhance the sustainability of tourism sites government should partner with private sector to develop the tourism sector to attain its potentials.
Tourism as a money spinner should be adequately funded. Adequate transportation means and facilities should be provided for tourism purposes so that they can be moved from place to place to see these spatially located geographical components of tourism as it is in developed countries. Mobility from one tourist site to another should be developed.
Tourist guards should be trained, liberal scholarship needs to be given to indigenous youth to study tourism related courses such as culture, dance and drama to meet international standard.
The tourism industry in the state should be consciously developed as it is capable of bringing  millions of people from different cultures together.
As it is, the Rivers State Tourism Development Agency set up by the State Government with a very clear mandate: To revamp, revive and re-engineer her old and emerging tourism potentials should deliberately craft both short and long term strategies that are guaranteed to deliver in this millennium. Their greatest commitment should be how to sell the state most valuable tourism export product to the world.
Nnam is of the Federal Information Centre, Port Harcourt.

 

J. Z. Nnam

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Opinion

Making the Out-of-School Children Survey Count 

Published

6 days ago

on

July 27, 2026

By

Quote: “Reliable data may reveal the scale of Nigeria’s out-of-school crisis, but only sustained political will and practical action can ensure that every child is given the opportunity to learn, thrive and contribute to national development.”

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, recently announced that the Federal Government, in partnership with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), will conduct a nationwide household survey to determine the actual number of out-of-school children in Nigeria. The exercise is intended to provide reliable data for evidence-based education policies and targeted interventions. Current estimates put the number of out-of-school children at between 15 million and 20 million, placing Nigeria among the countries with the highest number of children excluded from formal education. At first glance, this is a commendable initiative. One of Nigeria’s greatest developmental challenges has been the absence of accurate and reliable data. Without dependable statistics, planning becomes difficult, implementation inefficient, and evaluation of government programmes almost impossible.

The nation’s actual population also remains uncertain because of the absence of an up-to-date national census. Estimates range from below 200 million to over 250 million, making effective planning a daunting task. Sound policies on education, healthcare, housing, employment and infrastructure all depend on credible population statistics. Against this backdrop, the proposed survey deserves commendation. If government succeeds in generating reliable figures, it will be better positioned to allocate resources equitably, identify areas of greatest need and design interventions based on facts rather than assumptions. Accurate data will also make it easier to monitor progress and assess whether efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children are achieving the desired results.

However, beyond the good intentions lie important questions. Will state governments provide the enabling environment for an objective and transparent survey? Since education is on the concurrent legislative list, the cooperation of state governments will largely determine the credibility of the exercise. Politics could easily influence the process. States with higher numbers of out-of-school children may qualify for greater intervention funds from the Federal Government and development partners. Would this tempt some states to inflate their figures? On the other hand, high numbers could portray a state government as performing poorly in the education sector. Would some governors therefore seek to understate the figures to protect their image? These concerns are legitimate because whenever statistics are tied to political interests or financial benefits, the temptation to manipulate them cannot be ignored.

Equally important are questions about the survey itself. When will it begin? How long will it last? What methodology will be adopted? Will every household be covered, including those in remote rural communities and areas plagued by insecurity? Does the government have the manpower, funding, technology and security arrangements needed for such a nationwide exercise? Nigeria has witnessed several well-intentioned national programmes that fell short because of poor planning and inadequate logistics. Many Nigerians will remember that the proposed national population census scheduled a few years ago was postponed despite extensive preparations. Funding constraints and logistical challenges contributed to its suspension. What guarantees are there that this survey will not suffer a similar fate? More importantly, what becomes of the findings after the exercise? Nigeria is not short of reports or data collection initiatives.

The recurring challenge has been the lack of political will to translate findings into concrete policies and sustained action. The survey must not become another document gathering dust on government shelves. Instead, it should serve as the basis for measurable interventions, continuous monitoring and improved educational outcomes. Beyond producing accurate figures, the survey must also uncover the reasons children remain outside the classroom. Addressing the crisis requires more than counting affected children. It demands an understanding of the social, economic and cultural factors responsible for the problem. Issues such as the Almajiri system and other practices that discourage formal education should be carefully examined while respecting cultural values and protecting every child’s right to quality education. Poverty remains a major barrier, as many parents cannot afford school-related expenses, forcing children into street trading or child labour

Insecurity has also led to the closure of schools in several communities, depriving thousands of children of learning opportunities.Government must therefore complement the survey with practical measures. Strengthening social protection for vulnerable families, improving school infrastructure, recruiting and retaining qualified teachers, enhancing security around schools and enforcing compulsory basic education are all essential. Equally important is sustained collaboration with traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and development partners to address the root causes of school exclusion. The proposed survey presents an opportunity to replace guesswork with credible evidence. However, its true value will not be measured by the number of households visited or questionnaires completed. Its success will depend on whether the findings inspire bold policies, adequate funding and sustained action that ensure every Nigerian child, regardless of location or background, has access to quality education. Only then will the exercise move beyond statistics to become a genuine instrument for national development.

By: Calista Ezeaku

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Continue Reading

Opinion

African Women: Beyond the Stereotypes 

Published

6 days ago

on

July 27, 2026

By

Quote:”The story of the Tuareg women reminds us that Africa is not defined by a single narrative. Across the continent are cultures where women have long enjoyed dignity, influence and authority, proving that Africa’s history is far richer and more diverse than stereotypes suggest.”

For generations, Africa has often been portrayed through a single, narrow lens. News headlines, documentaries and social media feeds have tended to focus on poverty, conflict, disease and political instability, creating the impression that the continent has only one story to tell. While these challenges are real and deserve attention, they represent only a fraction of Africa’s rich history and cultural diversity. Reducing a continent of over a billion people and thousands of ethnic groups to one narrative does a great disservice to its people and heritage. One striking example of Africa’s diversity can be found among the Tuareg people of the Sahara Desert. Spread across Mali, Niger, Algeria, Libya and Burkina Faso, the Tuareg have preserved unique customs for centuries despite the harsh desert environment. Their society challenges many of the assumptions people hold about gender roles, particularly in African and Islamic communities.

Unlike many patriarchal societies where inheritance and authority are passed mainly through men, Tuareg tradition gives women a remarkable degree of respect, influence and autonomy. Family lineage is traced through the mother’s line, making women central to the identity and continuity of the family. This matrilineal system has helped shape a culture where women enjoy privileges that are uncommon in many parts of the world. Traditionally, Tuareg women own the family tents, which symbolise the household itself. They may also possess livestock, jewellery and other valuable property. In many families, women exercise considerable control over household wealth and inherit important possessions from their mothers. These rights are not viewed as extraordinary but as a natural part of their social structure. Marriage customs among the Tuareg are equally fascinating.

Women generally have a significant voice in choosing whom they marry, and divorce carries far less social stigma than it does in many other societies. If a marriage fails, a woman often returns to her family with her property and continues to enjoy the respect of her community. Rather than being treated as outcasts, divorced women frequently remarry if they choose. Such practices demonstrate a long-standing recognition of women’s dignity and independence. Perhaps even more intriguing is the value placed on female education and literacy. Historically, Tuareg women have often been more literate than the men. They preserve ancient poetry, songs and oral traditions that define the identity of their people. Through storytelling and cultural instruction, they pass history and values from one generation to another, ensuring that their heritage survives despite changing times.

Ironically, in Tuareg culture, it is often the men who wear the famous indigo veils that have become synonymous with the “Blue People of the Sahara.” The veil is worn for cultural and spiritual reasons and has become a symbol of maturity and honour among Tuareg men. This reversal of what many outsiders expect further illustrates how dangerous it is to judge societies using stereotypes. However, it is important to avoid replacing one stereotype with another. While Tuareg women enjoy rights that are impressive by many standards, their lives are not without challenges. Modern conflicts, climate change, economic hardship, displacement and political instability have affected Tuareg communities across the Sahara. Like many women worldwide, they continue to navigate social, economic and security concerns. Their story is therefore one of resilience rather than perfection.

The experience of the Tuareg also reminds us that Africa has never been culturally uniform. Across the continent are societies with widely varying traditions concerning leadership, inheritance, marriage and gender relations. Some communities are patriarchal, others matrilineal, while many combine elements of both. Understanding this diversity is essential if we are to appreciate Africa beyond simplistic generalisations. The colonial partition of Africa further complicated many indigenous institutions. European powers drew borders that divided ethnic groups and disrupted long-established systems of governance and social organisation. In some places, colonial administrations replaced or weakened traditional practices that had evolved over centuries. Yet many communities, including the Tuareg, have managed to preserve important aspects of their cultural identity despite these disruptions.

There is an important lesson here for Africans themselves. Too often, people accept narratives about their continent that are written entirely by outsiders. While criticism of Africa’s problems is necessary, celebrating its strengths is equally important. Indigenous knowledge, cultural diversity and historical achievements deserve the same attention as stories of crisis. Doing so creates a more balanced understanding of the continent and inspires confidence among younger generations. The story of the Tuareg women is not merely about female empowerment; it is about the richness of African civilisation. It reminds us that leadership, dignity and freedom can take different forms across cultures. Their example challenges long-held assumptions and encourages a more thoughtful appreciation of Africa’s complexity.

Ultimately, Africa cannot be understood through a single story. Its peoples, languages, traditions and histories are too vast and varied for such reduction. The Tuareg women of the Sahara stand as living proof that beneath the sweeping sands of the desert lies a civilisation whose values continue to surprise and inspire the world. As we seek to understand Africa better, we must move beyond stereotypes and embrace the many stories that together form the true identity of the continent

By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi  

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Continue Reading

Opinion

Beyond Physical Intimacy In Relationship 

Published

2 months ago

on

June 17, 2026

By

Quote:”Love is not sustained by sharing the same bed or displaying affection in public; it is preserved by the daily investment of trust, understanding, empathy, and meaningful conversations. Two people can be physically close yet emotionally distant, because lasting relationships are built not merely on intimacy, but on the consistent nurturing of hearts that remain genuinely connected.”
In an age where relationships are often measured by appearances, social media posts, and outward displays of affection, many couples are discovering a painful truth: physical closeness does not always translate into emotional connection. Two people can share the same bed, hold hands in public, and even maintain a seemingly happy home, yet remain strangers to each other’s deepest thoughts, fears, dreams, and struggles. This reality is captured in the thought-provoking message that emotional intimacy goes far beyond physical intimacy. While physical attraction may ignite a relationship, emotional connection is what sustains it. When emotional bonds weaken, relationships begin to suffer quietly, often long before any visible signs of trouble emerge.
One of the greatest misconceptions about love is the belief that affection alone is enough to keep a relationship healthy. In reality, genuine love requires much more than romantic gestures and physical presence. It requires understanding, communication, trust, empathy, and the willingness to be vulnerable with one another. Without these elements, couples may coexist rather than truly connect. Many relationships today are experiencing a silent crisis. Couples are spending more time together physically but less time engaging meaningfully. Busy schedules, work pressures, financial challenges, digital distractions, and personal ambitions have reduced many conversations to routine exchanges about bills, children, responsibilities, and daily survival. The deeper conversations that nurture emotional intimacy are gradually disappearing.
As a result, many partners feel unseen, unheard, and misunderstood. They may be present in the relationship physically, but emotionally they feel isolated. This emotional distance often creates frustration, resentment, and loneliness. Ironically, a person can feel more alone in a relationship lacking emotional connection than when they are physically alone. The danger of emotional disconnection is that it rarely announces itself loudly. Unlike dramatic conflicts or public scandals, it develops gradually. It starts when couples stop sharing their feelings openly. It grows when assumptions replace communication. It deepens when one partner feels consistently ignored, dismissed, or taken for granted. Over time, the relationship loses its warmth and vitality.This explains why some marriages and relationships that appear perfect from the outside eventually collapse unexpectedly.
 Observers are often shocked because they only saw the physical togetherness, not the emotional distance that had been growing for years beneath the surface. Relationships do not usually break down overnight; they deteriorate through the accumulation of unresolved emotional gaps. Building emotional intimacy, therefore, requires deliberate effort. It is not a one-time achievement but a daily commitment. Emotional connection is built through consistent acts of attention, kindness, and understanding. It develops when partners genuinely listen to each other without judgment. It grows when people feel safe enough to express their fears, disappointments, and aspirations without fear of criticism or rejection. Trust plays a crucial role in this process. Emotional intimacy flourishes in an environment where honesty is valued and confidentiality is respected. When trust is broken, emotional walls quickly rise.
 Rebuilding those walls requires patience, sincerity, and a willingness to heal together. Another important ingredient is empathy. Every individual wants to feel understood. Sometimes partners do not necessarily need solutions to their problems; they simply need someone who listens and acknowledges their feelings. A relationship becomes stronger when both individuals strive to understand each other’s perspectives rather than merely defend their own positions. Quality time is equally important. In a world dominated by smartphones and endless digital distractions, couples must intentionally create moments of genuine interaction. Simple activities such as sharing a meal, taking a walk, discussing personal goals, or praying together can strengthen emotional bonds significantly.
These moments communicate an important message: “You matter to me.” Respect also forms the foundation of emotional closeness. Partners who consistently speak respectfully to each other, even during disagreements, create a healthier environment for intimacy to thrive. Emotional connection cannot flourish where there is constant criticism, ridicule, or contempt. Perhaps the most important lesson is that emotional intimacy is not built by grand gestures alone. It is cultivated through small, consistent actions repeated over time. A thoughtful conversation, a sincere apology, a word of encouragement, or a genuine expression of appreciation can have a profound impact on the health of a relationship. Ultimately, the strength of any relationship lies not merely in physical proximity but in emotional accessibility. The question is not whether two people occupy the same space, but whether they truly know and understand each other.
Lasting love is sustained when hearts remain connected even amid life’s challenges. As society continues to grapple with increasing relationship difficulties, couples must remember that emotional intimacy is not optional; it is essential. Physical attraction may bring people together, but emotional connection keeps them together. It is built daily through communication, trust, empathy, respect, and intentional effort. When emotional intimacy is nurtured, relationships become more resilient, fulfilling, and meaningful. And when two hearts remain genuinely connected, love does not merely survive—it flourishes
By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi
Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Continue Reading

Trending