Energy and Tourism

Nigeria is a country generously blessed with natural attractions and diverse landscapes. Yet, with this wealth of resources, the country’s tourism industry remains stunted for several reasons, including the epileptic power supply in the country. Hence, alternative energy sources can be pivotal in ensuring sustainable tourism.

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, Tourism is one of the world’s largest economic sectors, supporting one in 10 jobs (319 million) worldwide and generating 10.4% of the world GDP. As such,  if well managed, tourism can catalyze national development. Tourism contributes 3.6%  of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and experts predict that it can contribute more if adequately harnessed, displacing Nigeria’s mono-economy.

The United States, Kenya, South Africa and Dubai have made significant returns for their governments by harnessing the potential of tourism in their country. In 2019, Nigeria ranked 129th out of 136 countries in the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index, far behind other African countries such as Mauritius, Seychelles, and Egypt, ranked 54th, 61st, and 65th, respectively. This statistic presents an urgent need to address energy access as a core challenge derailing the sector in Nigeria.

The tourism and energy sectors are not mutually exclusive, so tourism cannot reach its peak without an improved power sector. The tourism industry is a sector that relies heavily on stable electricity to operate optimally. This is supported by statistics that state that energy is reportedly the second-largest spending category for a tourist business after employment. The tourist industry is also reported to contribute to global emissions significantly. Therefore, exploring alternative energies for sustainable tourism is crucial.

In Nigeria, developing economically viable alternative energy sources, such as geothermal, solar, and wind power, can offer a sustainable and dependable energy supply for lodging facilities, vacation destinations, and other infrastructure involved in the travel and tourist industry.

Traditional energy sources, such as fossil fuels, are sometimes expensive and subject to price volatility in Nigeria. Alternative energy sources are a more economical choice because of their scale. The modular nature of many renewable energy (RE) systems means they can be built or paid for as the energy demand grows, and embedded within the existing energy network, as opposed to large, centralized energy systems. For the tourism sector, increasing the reliability of power supplies and minimizing power outages can be a crucial element of customer satisfaction.

Nigeria’s tourism potential extends beyond urban areas to rural communities with unique cultural heritage, landscapes, and wildlife. However, these regions often lack access to reliable electricity. Alternative energy solutions can power guest houses, community centres, and attractions, breeding rural tourism infrastructure and boosting local economies.

Globally, there is a looming concern about how the activities of businesses and various sectors affect the environment. The tourism sector is reportedly some of the worst offenders in terms of carbon emissions. Hence, exploring renewable energy sources in this sector indicates the nation’s commitment to climate action. Furthermore, tourist destinations with clean energy technologies are more attractive to investors who are conscious of efforts to combat climate change. Furthermore, as customers become more aware of these impacts, demand for cleaner goods and services increases.

Embracing alternative energy sources presents an opportunity for Nigeria’s tourism industry to be revived. Tourist sites such as the Mambilla Plateau in Taraba, Obudu Mountain Resort in Cross Rivers, and Yankari Games Reserves in Bauchi could be developed to world standards.

Therefore, governments, businesses, and relevant stakeholders must respond through a range of actions, beginning with energy efficiency and continuing with investments in renewable energy. By leveraging alternative energy sources, Nigeria can resuscitate its tourism sector, attract investors, promote sustainability, and unlock economic growth.