Enugu Govt. set to boost business, entrepreneurship in S-east 

By, Chinelo Kodilichukwu Enugu 

Enugu state is set to host a 2-day workshop for professionals and entrepreneurs in tourism slated to hold this November in the State capital.

The Chairman, National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) Enugu State and also Convener of the event Mrs Chioma Obi, made this known while speaking with newsmen on Monday.

Obi disclosed that the workshop is organised by Jands Travel Business School in collaboration with Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA) and NANTA.

Obi in her speech emphasized that the workshop with a theme: “Exploring A Synergy To Boost Business & Entrepreneurship” will be held at ECCIMA Hall, ECCIMA Secretariat, Enugu beginning from 9am, daily.

According to her, the event has been endorsed by Dame Ugochi Madueke, Enugu State Commissioner for Culture & Tourism and the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, (NTDA)

She urged members of the public to join industry experts, entrepreneurs and key players in the travel, tourism and hospitality sector for the insightful 2-day event, filled with networking, learning, cultural displays and opportunities to boost domestic tourism in Eastern Nigeria. 

“Explore ways to grow your business through tourism. Connect with professionals and entrepreneurs. Discover ways to make profit from selling Nigerian tour packages and explore the future of tourism in Nigeria” she added.

Responding, the president of ECCIMA, Odeiga Jideonwu, in his speech said that they are driven by the vision of the Enugu State Government to grow the state GDP from #4.4 billion to #30 billion and this is why we collaborate with any organization that has programs that will promote and support the growth of businesses in Enugu State.

“We have seen that hosting thousands of visitors for such an event in the Eastern Zone and Enugu will bring significant commercial benefits to our dear State, Enugu. The hospitality industry in Enugu remains a major beneficiary.

“The influx of attendees drives up demand for local accommodations, restaurants, and transportation services, generating substantial revenue for hotels, eateries, and taxi operators. Retail businesses, from shopping centres to local markets, experience increased sales as visitors purchase goods and souvenirs. Moreover, the exposure to new customers fosters long-term business relationships and investments, as many visitors return for leisure or business.

In collaboration with the speakers from ECCIMA and JANDS, the NANTA National President, Mr Olayinka Folami, said the workshop is apt and timely.

Reiterating that the theme of the workshop is, “Exploring A Synergy To Boost Business & Entrepreneurship,  the President said it will help to explore ways to grow business through tourism in the country.

Expected speakers at the event include: Chief Ben Etiaba (Principal Partner, Ben Etiaba & Co. Chartered Accountants), Barrister Mrs. Patricia Igwebuike (Hon. Commissioner, Transportation, Anambra State), Olayinka Folami (National President, NANTA), Odeiga Jedeonwu ( President, ECCIMA), Chioma Obi (Director,Jands Travel Business School, Enugu), Mr Ayodeji Awomoyi (Principal Executive, Flyzone Tourism).