DTF 2026 opens in Enugu as Governor Mbah highlights major tourism projects while Innovation, Science and Technology Minister calls for technology-driven tourism.
The third edition of the Domestic Tourism Festival (DTF) 2026 has officially opened in Enugu, with the Enugu State Government highlighting its ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure and calling for greater promotion of the state’s tourism potential.
The three-day festival, themed “Innovation and Technology for Peaceful Domestic Tourism,” brings together tourism stakeholders, government representatives, travel agencies, hospitality operators, investors, entrepreneurs, students, innovators and other industry players.
Representing Governor Peter Mbah at the opening ceremony, the Enugu State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, Esq., described the theme as timely and inspiring, noting that innovation and technology could transform tourism, improve visitor experiences, preserve cultural heritage and drive sustainable economic growth.
Madueke highlighted the state government’s investments in tourism infrastructure and destination development, revealing that several major projects are nearing commissioning.
Among them, she listed the Awhum Waterfall boardwalk, Okpatu Cross of Hope and cable car, Ngwo zip line, Nsude canopy walkway, Ovu Lake Resort, Akwuke Sand Beach and Water Park, and Atakwu Animal Sanctuary.
She said the projects were positioning Enugu as a major destination for leisure, adventure, culture and business tourism, while urging Nigerians to explore the country’s tourism attractions instead of continually travelling abroad in search of holiday experiences.
The Commissioner also emphasised the importance of effective storytelling in promoting tourism, urging Nigerians to take ownership of their cultural narratives and showcase the country’s attractions to the world.
“Nobody can tell your story better than you. And if you don’t tell your story, you will not sell it,” Madueke said.
She commended the organisers, Jands Travel Business School, for providing a platform that brings together policymakers, innovators, tourism professionals, entrepreneurs and culture stakeholders to advance domestic tourism.
On behalf of Governor Mbah, Madueke officially declared the Domestic Tourism Festival Enugu 2026 open.
Delivering the first keynote address on behalf of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, Dr. Nnenna Amalu called for stronger investment in technology, security and collaboration to unlock Nigeria’s tourism potential.
Amalu said technology must become a foundation for the growth of Nigeria’s domestic tourism industry, identifying digital destination discovery, online booking and payment systems, content creation, tourism data and technology-enabled security as key areas where innovation could transform the sector.
According to her, Nigeria’s tourism potential remains largely untapped despite its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes and economic opportunities.
She also described domestic tourism as a tool for national integration, stressing that increased travel among Nigerians could promote cultural understanding, strengthen relationships between communities and contribute to peace.
Dr. Amalu urged government officials, entrepreneurs, content creators, educators and young Nigerians to take concrete steps towards developing the tourism industry.
“The tourism industry Nigeria needs does not yet exist. This is not a problem; this is a blank page,” she said, urging young Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunities in the sector.
Earlier, the Convener of the festival, Mrs Chioma Obi, welcomed participants to the third edition, describing DTF as a growing national platform for government, industry, academia, entrepreneurs, investors and communities to shape the future of tourism.
She said the festival was created to promote Nigeria’s tourism assets while transforming them into opportunities for economic growth, cultural preservation, innovation and national unity.
Obi said DTF 2026 would feature masterclasses, destination exhibitions, cultural performances, the Travel Tech Pitch finale, networking sessions and the iconic Masquerade Festival.
She expressed appreciation to the Enugu State Government, sponsors, partners, exhibitors, speakers, volunteers and other stakeholders for supporting the festival.
The three-day festival with a lineup of other activities is expected to provide a platform for participants to explore tourism opportunities, develop partnerships and promote Enugu and other Nigerian destinations to domestic and international audiences.
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