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Tourism

Building a Sustainable Tourism Industry in Nigeria: Continental Academy's Ambitious Vision

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Continental Academy is a project spearheaded by Continental Hotels General Manager, Karl Hala, to provide training and skills development to youths in the hospitality industry within Africa and beyond. The academy aims to create a sustainable growth in the industry by improving infrastructure, training, and career paths. Hala emphasizes the importance of collaboration with reputable local and international organizations, including the Nigerian Minister of Education, IOM, UNHCR, UNICEF, and Lagos Business School. The project's goal is to create a future for 100 million people below the age of 20 and make tourism thrive in Nigeria, resulting in job creation and potential GDP growth.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Continental Academy aims to provide world-class facilities for hospitality training, with a focus on youths as major drivers of the industry.
  • The academy has received commitments from local and international bodies, including the Nigerian Minister of Education, IOM, UNHCR, UNICEF, and Lagos Business School, to collaborate on the project.
  • The project plans to create a structured growth and career path for youths in the hospitality industry, attracting them to the industry and making it a major employer of young people.
  • The Continental Academy will focus on basic skills training in the hospitality industry, including kitchens, housekeeping, laundry, IT, and other services.
  • The project aims to create a sustainable tourism industry in Nigeria, with a focus on the country's cultural heritage, traditions, and strengths.
  • Nigeria has a strong potential for tourism, with the country having a large and vibrant population, as well as a rich cultural heritage.
  • The Continental Academy will work towards creating a narrative that showcases Nigeria's strengths and encourages tourists to visit the country.

Statistics:

  • 100 million people below the age of 20 will have a future through the Continental Academy.
  • Nigeria has a population of 190 million people, with a growing youth population.
  • The country has 230 million people, with minimal crime rates compared to other African countries.
  • The creative sector in Nigeria includes fashion (2-3 leads), hair (1.5 leads), and hospitality (1.2-3 leads).

Sources:

  • Interview with Karl Hala, General Manager, Continental Hotels.
  • Discussions with the Nigerian Minister of Education, IOM, UNHCR, UNICEF, and Lagos Business School.
  • Speech at the Continental Academy launch event.

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