Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Nigeria’s former Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, has been appointed as the Special Advisor to Zurab Pololikashvili, the Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
The announcement was made during the 66th UNWTO Commission for Africa, currently taking place in Mauritius.
With a wealth of knowledge and experience in the world of tourism, Mohammed has played instrumental roles in the affairs of the UNWTO for the past seven years.
Notably, he led the organization of the 61st UNWTO CAF Meetings in Nigeria in 2018 and the maiden UNWTO Global Conference on Linking Tourism, Culture, and Creative Industries in Lagos last year.
In his new role as Special Advisor, Mohammed is expected to assist Secretary-General Pololikashvili in his objective of making Africa a key region for the global tourism economy, aligning with the Agenda for Africa program.
Expressing gratitude for the appointment, Mohammed affirmed his commitment to honoring the trust placed in him. He highlighted Nigeria’s dynamic and diverse resources in tourism, culture, creative industries, and technology, expressing enthusiasm for contributing to the development of sustainable and responsible tourism.
The mandate of the Special Advisor encompasses various responsibilities, including developing a strategy for restarting sustainable and safe tourism post-COVID-19.
Mohammed will also advise the UNWTO secretary-general on information and culture-related matters, prepare relevant reports and research documents, and accompany the secretary-general on official visits. During these visits, he will offer advice and propose actions in line with UNWTO’s priorities in public relations.
Mohammed’s appointment marks the first time he will attend a UNWTO function as a private individual, having served as Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism for the past seven years. His deep appreciation goes to the leaders of member states, especially those from the African region, for their support and friendship.
As the first Nigerian to hold this position, Mohammed is committed to playing a crucial role in shaping the future of tourism in the region and beyond.
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