Expert Warns Insecurity Could Stall Africa’s Tourism Growth
By OBI DAVIES
Insecurity remains one of the biggest barriers to the expansion of tourism, hospitality and the creative sector in Africa, with Nigeria particularly affected, tourism expert Mr. Sunnie Chukumele has said. He spoke at the African Descent Creative Industry Leadership Summit held in Abuja and organised by the Global Initiative for Leadership Success in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy.
Chukumele explained that although Africa’s tourism industry has demonstrated resilience and recorded impressive growth since the COVID-19 downturn, insecurity continues to influence investor confidence and destination choices. He said fragile regions suffer reduced investment while tourism activities are concentrated in safer areas, limiting inclusive development.
Citing United Nations tourism data, he noted that Africa recorded approximately 74 million international tourist arrivals in 2024, with growth continuing into 2025, marking a strong recovery from pandemic-era losses. However, he warned that without sustained improvements in security, these gains may not translate into long-term development.
He called on governments to address insecurity through coordinated regional efforts, infrastructure development and community-focused initiatives. According to him, tourism can play a stabilising role when supported by safety, social inclusion and strategic investment.
