ACETNews
Kogi State is exploring digital technology, artificial intelligence and investment opportunities as part of efforts to transform its tourism sector and promote the state’s cultural and historical assets.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Fatima Momoh, disclosed this on Sunday in Lokoja during an event marking the 2026 World Tourism Day.
World Tourism Day is observed annually on September 27 to highlight the contribution of tourism to economic development, cultural exchange, employment and sustainable development.
The 2026 celebration focuses on the role of digital innovation and artificial intelligence in reshaping tourism and improving access to tourism products and services.
Momoh said technology had changed the way tourism destinations are promoted and how services are delivered to visitors.
According to her, the state is working towards bringing tourism and hospitality facilities online, allowing potential visitors to search for destinations and make hotel bookings remotely.
She said the digital approach would help make information about Kogi’s attractions more accessible to tourists while creating opportunities for tourism businesses to reach a wider audience.
The commissioner also disclosed plans to develop Mount Patti into a major tourist hub, including a proposal to install a cable car at the location.
Mount Patti holds historical, religious, social and economic significance for Kogi State and is associated with the history surrounding the origin of the name Nigeria.
Momoh said the state government was committed to advancing tourism development through improved infrastructure, policy and digital innovation.
She added that a culture and tourism committee had been constituted with the objective of positioning Kogi as a tourism hub and establishing a unified cultural heritage festival.
The commissioner further disclosed that the state was working on a comprehensive tourism master plan and policy aimed at attracting investors and strengthening the capacity of the tourism sector.
She, however, identified security as an important factor in the development of tourism, noting that efforts were being made to strengthen peace and security across the state.
The planned digital transformation, alongside investment in infrastructure and cultural heritage, is expected to form part of Kogi’s broader efforts to make its tourism attractions more accessible while positioning the state as a destination for visitors and investors.
Courtesy NAN
