By Jimoh Babatunde

In a landmark event for African tourism, Senator Ned Nwoko, Chairman of Project Tourism Africa and a leading advocate for pan-African development, welcomed the winners of the inaugural Tour Africa Lottery at his Abuja residence.

The winners, selected through the Visit Rwanda campaign, were celebrated for their role in advancing a vision to position Africa as a premier global tourist destination and highlight its cultural richness.

Addressing the gathering, Senator Nwoko commended the winners for their achievement and emphasized the transformative potential of tourism for Africa’s economic and cultural growth. “Tourism connects people, promotes cultural understanding, and fosters regional unity. Through initiatives like Project Tourism, we are showcasing Africa’s unmatched potential and redefining its narrative on the global stage,” he said.

The Senator encouraged the winners to embrace their role as ambassadors of cultural exchange and to focus on the goals of their trip, which include exploring Africa’s natural beauty and fostering unity among its people. During an interactive session, he touched on crucial topics such as climate change, global warming, and the preservation of Africa’s post-colonial cultural identities. Highlighting a growing sense of self-determination among African nations, he praised the continent’s efforts to resist external cultural and policy impositions.

Joining Senator Nwoko at the event was Hon. Gloria Okolugbo, his Director of Communications, who congratulated the winners and urged them to make the most of their journey. “You represent the heart of Nigeria and Africa’s tourism ambitions. Use this opportunity to bring back ideas and inspiration that will shape the future of tourism development,” she said.

Mr. Chukwuebuka Anyaduba, Project Director of Tour Africa, also spoke, lauding the Visit Rwanda campaign as a testament to the unifying power of tourism. “This campaign bridges gaps between African nations, encouraging the exploration of the continent’s unparalleled beauty. Today is just the beginning of Project Tourism Africa’s mission to amplify Africa’s voice on the global tourism map,” he remarked.

The winners—Ezirim Linda Chioma, Christiana Sanni, Juliet Ezeugbo, Hope Omale, and Ifeoma Okparajiego—expressed excitement and gratitude for the opportunity. They hailed the Tour Africa Lottery as a platform that fosters cultural appreciation and exploration. The winners are set to embark on their journey to Rwanda from December 15–20, 2024, where they will experience the country’s stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and world-renowned hospitality.

The trip is being coordinated by Ms. Anita Soina, East Africa Regional Representative for Project Tourism Africa, and supported by the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA). Proudly sponsored by Linas International, the Tour Africa Lottery represents a bold push for pan-African tourism and regional integration.