Martin Eze
The recent disruption of economic activities occasioned by the global pandemic; Covid-19, has accelerated the swift adoption of virtual technology. Stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry have been consistent towards proffering innovative solutions geared towards combating the effects of travel restrictions while adapting to the new reality.In a recent development, the National Council for Arts and Culture of Nigeria launched a Virtual Cultural Tour of Nigeria.
Speaking on this initiative, in a zoom meeting with tourism practitioners and allied stakeholders in the tourism eco-system, the D.G. – Otunba Runsewe Olusegun
pointed out that the virtual tour was initiated to avail a global audience the opportunity of touring Nigeria from the comfort of their homes.
Observing the need for disruptive thoughts to facilitate tourism and other recreational services in Nigeria in the midst of the pandemic, Runsewe stated: “Covid-19 is like rain falling and it gives us an opportunity to think outside the box and to come up with this virtual cultural tour which serves as a therapy and ‘rain jacket’ for the pandemic.”
The tour features cultural landmarks and monuments across the spatial geo-political distribution of Nigeria including: Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom state, South-South; Tafawa Balewa Tomb, Bauchi state, North-West; Ikogosi Warm Spring, Ekiti state, South-West; Lejja Iron Smelthing Site, Enugu state, South-East, Military Cemetery in Zungeru, Niger state, North Central and a host of others.
Announcing the intent of the NCAC to launch the first Virtual National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), to be held later in the year at Jos, Plateau state, the D.G. intimated that it will be modeled according to the Cultural Tour and organized as a drive-In Theatre, adhering strictly to all Covid-19 protocols and also available for all Nigerians to watch online and via broadcast television.
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