By Milcah Tanimu
During the opening session of the 66th UNWTO Commission for Africa (CAF) in Mauritius, Lai Mohammed was announced as the UN Special Advisor on Tourism. This appointment comes just a month after Mohammed took on the role of managing partner for the Nigerian branches of Ballard Partners, an international lobbying firm.
Expressing his gratitude for the appointment, Lai Mohammed stated, “I am deeply touched and inspired by your generous words of confidence and trust.” This marks a historic moment for him, as it is the first time he attends a UNWTO function as a private individual after previously serving as Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism.
In his new capacity as the Special Advisor on Tourism to the Secretary General, Lai Mohammed views this as an opportunity to contribute to the development of tourism in Nigeria and Africa at large, with a strong emphasis on responsible and sustainable practices.
Lai Mohammed’s extensive background in the world tourism body spans seven years, during which he played crucial roles in various capacities. Notably, he was instrumental in organizing the 61st UNWTO CAF Meetings in Nigeria in 2018 and the inaugural UNWTO Global Conference on Linking Tourism, Culture, and Creative Industries in Lagos the following year. His experience is expected to support the implementation of Secretary General Pololikashvili’s Agenda for Africa program, which aims to position Africa as a significant region in the global tourism economy.
As the Special Advisor, Lai Mohammed’s responsibilities encompass several key areas. He will be tasked with developing a strategy to restart sustainable and safe tourism post-COVID-19 and providing advice on information and culture-related matters to the UNWTO Secretary General. Additionally, he will prepare relevant reports and research documents in alignment with UNWTO’s principles, accompany and advise the Secretary General during his visits, and propose public relations actions in line with the organization’s priorities.