L-R, Nollywood star, Kitan Bukola, Chief Dr. Oyenike Okundaye (Nike Arts Gallery); HRH Erelu Abiola Dosumu, Erelu Kuti IV, Yeye Odua (Host); Karl Hala, GGM, Continental Hotels Nigeria; Dr. Tunde Lawrenson, Secretary, Board of Trustees and Governing Council, Eko Tourism Foundation (convener); and Amb. Felix Duke, at the E-VISA 2026 Summit for a Sustainable Sociocultural Economy in Lagos.
Karl Hala, Group General Manager of Continental Hotel Group, has emphasized the importance of Nigeria’s youthful population in unlocking the country’s tourism potential in the quest to shore up the nation’s economic growth .
The Continental Hotel Group manages two iconic hotels – Lagos and Abuja Continental hotels
Speaking at the Eko Vanguard International Summit and Awards ( E-VISA 2026 ) event, Hala noted that Nigeria’s median age is under 19, making it one of the youngest countries in the world. “This is not a challenge – this is an economic engine waiting to be structured,” he said.
Hala highlighted the need for skills development and training programs to equip Nigeria’s youth with the skills required to drive the tourism industry.
He also emphasized the importance of promoting entrepreneurship and innovation, citing the country’s vibrant creative sector.
“Our youth are not just the future – they are the present,” Hala said. “We need to empower them with the skills and resources they need to drive tourism development and create jobs.”
The E-VISA 2026 event showcased Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity, with performances and exhibitions highlighting the country’s vibrant music, art, and cuisine. Hala encouraged attendees to explore the country’s many attractions, from the bustling streets of Lagos to the scenic beauty of the Jos Plateau.
As Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy, Hala urged stakeholders to prioritize tourism development, leveraging the country’s unique cultural and natural assets to drive economic growth.
The event also highlighted the importance of addressing negative perceptions about Nigeria, with Hala calling for initiatives like the “Good News Nigeria” campaign to promote a more positive narrative about the country.
With its youthful population and rich cultural heritage, Nigeria is poised to become a major player in the global tourism industry. Hala’s call for skills development and entrepreneurship has been welcomed by industry stakeholders, who acknowledge the need for concerted efforts to unlock the sector’s potential.
Hala was later presented with an award plaque by HRH Erelu ( Dr Chevalier) Abiola Dosumu,a distinguished member ,Board of Trustees ,Eko Tourism Foundation in recognition of his contributions to the Culture and Tourism Ecosystem in Nigeria
The E-VISA 2026 event brought together stakeholders from the public and private sectors to explore ways to harness Nigeria’s tourism potential. Participants committed to work together to promote sustainable tourism practices, create jobs, and drive economic growth.
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