Edem Duke Champions Digital Agenda, Artificial Intelligence for Ebonyi Tourism Future
Former Tourism Minister says technology, data and digital innovation are key to repositioning Ebonyi as a competitive tourism destination
Former Minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation and former Supervising Minister of Information, High Chief Edem Duke, has called for the integration of digital technology and artificial intelligence into Ebonyi State’s tourism development strategy.
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 organised as part of activities marking the 2026 UNWTO International Tourism Day celebration and the 30th anniversary of the creation of Ebonyi State.
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Speaking on the theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism: Positioning Ebonyi State for the Future of Tourism, Culture and Economic Development,” Duke said tourism has evolved beyond physical infrastructure, with digital visibility, data intelligence and technological innovation increasingly shaping the global tourism industry.
AI and Digital Technology Transforming Tourism
According to Duke, artificial intelligence is changing how tourists discover, plan and experience destinations around the world.
He highlighted emerging applications including AI-powered travel planning, smart destination mapping, virtual heritage experiences and digital economic inclusion for host communities.
He noted that destinations seeking to remain competitive must increasingly embrace digital tools to improve visibility, enhance visitor experiences and connect tourism assets with wider markets.
Duke Commends Ebonyi Tourism Master Plan
Duke commended the Ebonyi State Government for unveiling its Tourism Policy and Development Master Plan, describing the initiative as timely given the ongoing digital transformation of the global tourism industry.
He said the policy provides an opportunity for Ebonyi State to strengthen its tourism sector and transition from being a relatively less-explored destination to a more competitive tourism economy.
According to him, Ebonyi’s tourism potential extends across its natural landscapes, cultural festivals and agrarian heritage.
Ebonyi Can Leverage AI for Sustainable Tourism
The former minister said Ebonyi State has the potential to demonstrate how sub-national governments can use digital technology and artificial intelligence to support tourism development.
He identified opportunities for technology to contribute to sustainable tourism, cultural preservation and inclusive economic growth, particularly by creating greater economic opportunities for communities that host tourism attractions.
Duke’s presentation placed digital innovation and artificial intelligence at the centre of discussions around the future of tourism in Ebonyi State.
The unveiling of the Tourism Policy and Development Master Plan therefore represents a significant step in the state’s effort to provide a structured framework for developing its tourism, culture and related economic opportunities.
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