Former Minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, High Chief Edem Duke, has called on sub-national governments to leverage technology and artificial intelligence to drive sustainable tourism and economic development.
Duke made the call on Sunday, September 27, 2026, while delivering the keynote address at the presentation of the Ebonyi State Tourism Policy and Development Master Plan. The event was organized to mark the 2026 United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) International Tourism Day celebration and the 30th anniversary of Ebonyi State’s creation.
Speaking on the theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism: Positioning Ebonyi State for the Future of Tourism, Culture and Economic Development,” the former Supervising Minister of Information stressed that modern tourism extends beyond physical infrastructure to encompass digital visibility, data intelligence, and technological innovation.
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According to Duke, artificial intelligence is reshaping how global destinations are discovered, marketed, and experienced. He highlighted AI-powered travel planning, smart destination mapping, virtual heritage experiences, and digital economic inclusion for host communities as critical tools for modernizing the sector.
Commending the Ebonyi State Government for unveiling its master plan during a period of global digital transformation, Duke described the initiative as a bold step toward transforming the state from a hidden gem into a competitive tourism economy.
He further noted that Ebonyi – endowed with iconic landscapes, vibrant cultural festivals, and a rich agrarian heritage – is uniquely positioned to serve as a national model for using digital strategies to foster sustainable tourism, preserve cultural heritage, and accelerate economic growth.
