BY GLORIA OKOLUGBO
In a landmark moment for the Tour Africa Lottery, Senator Ned Nwoko, Chairman of Project Tourism Africa and a prominent advocate for pan-African tourism and development, warmly welcomed the winners of the inaugural Visit Rwanda campaign at his residence in Abuja.
The event celebrated this visionary initiative, which seeks to highlight Africa’s vast tourism potential while positioning Nigeria as a gateway to global travel and cultural exchange.
Senator Nwoko commended the winners on their remarkable achievement and reaffirmed his unwavering dedication to advancing tourism as a cornerstone of Africa’s economic transformation.
“Tourism is not just a tool for economic growth; it is a means to connect people, promote cultural understanding, and foster regional unity.
“Through initiatives like Project Tourism, we are redefining Africa’s narrative and showcasing the continent as a premier destination on the global stage,” he remarked.
The Senator also charged the winners to remain focused on the goals of the trip, which include fostering cultural exchange, appreciating Africa’s natural beauty, and bringing back valuable lessons.
During an interactive session, he delved into critical topics such as global warming, climate change, and the rich cultural identities of African peoples.
He stressed the urgent need to preserve these identities in post-colonial Africa, noting their significance to the continent’s heritage.
Furthermore, Senator Nwoko drew attention to a growing continental awareness, underscoring the recent pushback by African states against cultural and policy impositions by external forces.
This, he remarked, signals a renewed era of pride, self-determination, and the safeguarding of Africa’s traditions and values.
The Senator was joined by Hon. Gloria Okolugbo, his Director of Communications, who extended her congratulations to the winners.
She urged them to embrace their role as ambassadors for Nigeria, to immerse themselves in the experience, and to bring back lessons and insights that could inspire and inform future tourism development initiatives.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Chukwuebuka Anyaduba, Project Director of Tour Africa, praised the success of the Visit Rwanda campaign in bridging gaps between African nations and inspiring exploration of the continent’s unparalleled beauty.
“This campaign underscores the transformative power of tourism. It connects people, cultures, and economies in profound ways.
“What we are witnessing today is just the beginning of Project Tourism Africa’s vision to amplify Africa’s voice on the global tourism map,” he stated.
The winners of the Visit Rwanda campaign, who are set to embark on an exciting journey to Rwanda from December 15–20, 2024, expressed their gratitude for the opportunity.
They lauded the Tour Africa Lottery for creating a platform that encourages pan-African exploration and fosters cultural appreciation.
The trip, coordinated by East Africa Regional Representative for Project Tourism, Ms. Anita Soina, will showcase Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant heritage, and world-renowned hospitality.
The winners of this maiden edition are Ezirim Linda Chioma, Christiana Sanni, Juliet Ezeugbo, Hope Omale and Ifeoma Okparajiego.
The Tour Africa Lottery, proudly sponsored by Linas International and supported by the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), represents a bold initiative to promote pan-African tourism and regional integration.
For more information on the Tour Africa Lottery and upcoming campaigns, visit www.tourafricalottery.com.
