August 17, (THEWILL) – President Bola Tinubu has formally endorsed the Ipada Initiative and the Ipada Carnival, both ground-breaking projects championed by Motherland Beckons, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Tourism.
These initiatives represent a pivotal advancement in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance tourism and foster a deeper connection between Africa and the global diaspora.
President Tinubu, In a statement on Monday, highlighted the significance of the Ipada Carnival, an annual event scheduled to be held in the Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos, near the Lekki Deep Seaport.
The carnival is expected to serve as a cultural centrepiece, offering tourists a vibrant showcase of the diverse sights, sounds, and tastes of Africa.
Also, the Federal Government expects the event to become a major attraction for tourists seeking to reconnect with their African heritage and celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of the continent.
The government plans to position the Ipada Initiative as a strategy to redefine the narrative of cultural heritage tourism by promoting a “return to Africa” among people of African descent and enthusiasts of African culture worldwide.
Lagos is envisioned as the gateway through which this initiative will propel the growth of the African tourism industry, drawing visitors from across the globe to experience the continent’s rich history and vibrant culture.
At the heart of the Ipada Initiative is a profound cultural pilgrimage that offers tourists, particularly those from America and the Caribbean, an opportunity to explore their ancestral roots.
Under the evocative theme, “From Slave Ships to Cruise Ships,” this event allows participants to retrace the historic routes taken by their forebears during the trans-Atlantic slave trade. What was once a symbol of oppression is now transformed into a luxurious and reflective experience, highlighting the resilience and enduring spirit of the African diaspora.
In his letter of endorsement, Tinubu emphasised the importance of “engaging all relevant ministries, agencies, and local governments to provide the necessary support for these initiatives.
“Central to this effort is facilitating the docking of large cruise ships, a key component of the international tourism industry, at Nigerian ports.
“This logistical support will enable the arrival of thousands of tourists to Nigeria’s shores, significantly boosting the country’s tourism revenue and global visibility.”
Tinubu’s endorsement of the Ipada Initiative and Carnival marks a significant step forward in Nigeria’s mission to position itself as a premier destination for cultural tourism.
The President expressed his anticipation for the successful hosting of the maiden edition of the Ipada Carnival, viewing it as a vital opportunity to enhance Nigeria’s standing in the global tourism sector.
To this end, the Ministry of Tourism, through the Minister, Lola Ade-John, has commenced work in collaboration with the Motherland Beckons group and other stakeholders to ensure the seamless execution of these initiatives.
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
