The Kogi government is exploring digital technology, artificial intelligence and investment opportunities to transform its tourism sector and harness its vast cultural and historical assets.

Fatima Momoh, the culture and tourism commissioner, stated this on Sunday in Lokoja during an event marking the 2026 World Tourism Day.

World Tourism Day, observed annually on September 27, highlights tourism’s contribution 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.

Ms Momoh said technology had changed tourism promotion and service delivery. The commissioner said the state was working to bring tourism and hospitality facilities online, enabling visitors to search for destinations and book hotels remotely.

She said plans were underway to develop Mount Patti into a major tourist hub, including a proposal to install a cable car. According to her, Mount Patti has historical, religious, social and economic significance, including its connection with the origin of the name Nigeria.

The commissioner said the Kogi government was committed to advancing tourism development through infrastructure, policy and digital innovation. She said a culture and tourism committee had been constituted to make Kogi a tourism hub and establish a unified cultural heritage festival.

The commissioner said the state was working towards developing a comprehensive tourism masterplan and policy to encourage investors and strengthen capacity in the sector. She also said improved security remained essential to tourism development, adding that efforts were underway to strengthen peace in the state further.

(NAN)