Travel/Tourism
Arctic Indigenous People and Their Traditional Culture: Potential for Tourism Development
By Professor Maurice Okoli
The Arctic region is a geographic region spreading around the North Pole. It is the Northernmost region of the earth characterized by distinctively polar conditions of climate, plant, and animal life, Physical features breathtaking landscapes and unique ecosystems which are home to diverse Indigenous cultures, including the Inuit, Saami, and Chukchi people.
These cultures have thrived for thousands of years, developing rich traditions and ways of life intimately connected to the land and its resources. The Arctic is very important not just because it helps keep our world’s climate in balance but the Arctic sea ice acts as a huge white reflector on the top of the planet, bouncing some of the sun’s rays back into space and helping keep the earth at an even temperature.
As global interest in the Arctic grows, particularly in the context of climate change and environmental conservation, tourism has emerged as a significant factor influencing Indigenous communities. This paper explores the intricate relationship between Arctic Indigenous cultures and tourism, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges that arise from this interaction.
The Richness of Arctic Indigenous Cultures
Arctic Indigenous peoples possess a deep understanding of their environment, which is reflected in their languages, arts, and traditional practices. Their cultures are often characterized by a profound respect for nature, with belief systems that emphasize harmony with the land, animals, and natural elements which encompasses traditional knowledge, skills, and practices essential for survival in the Arctic.
This cultural heritage is expressed through storytelling, music, dance, and crafts, such as intricate carvings and textiles. The preservation of these cultures is vital not only for the communities themselves but also for the broader understanding of human adaptation to extreme environments. As climate change threatens traditional ways of life, the resilience of Arctic Indigenous cultures becomes increasingly important. Tourism, when approached thoughtfully, can play a role in preserving these traditions and ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard.
Indigenous tourism in the Arctic: Opportunities for Indigenous Communities
Indigenous tourism refers to the activities and experiences that are rooted in the culture and tradition of the indigenous communities. These experiences are often led by the Indigenous people themselves ensuring authenticity and original representation of their heritage. The rise of Arctic tourism presents numerous opportunities for Indigenous communities. Eco-tourism and cultural tourism allow visitors to engage with Indigenous cultures in meaningful ways, fostering respect and understanding.
Many Indigenous groups have begun to develop their tourism initiatives, offering guided tours, cultural workshops, and authentic experiences that showcase their heritage. This not only provides economic benefits but also empowers Indigenous peoples to reclaim narratives about their cultures. Through tourism, Indigenous communities can share their stories, traditions, and knowledge with a global audience.
This exchange promotes cultural growth and can lead to increased awareness of the challenges faced by these communities, including the impacts of climate change and the need for sustainable practices. Furthermore, the revenue generated from tourism can be reinvested into community development, education, and the preservation of cultural practices.
Challenges of Indigenous Tourism in the Arctic
Tourism in the Arctic poses significant challenges. One major concern is the risk of cultural commodification, where Indigenous traditions are reduced to mere attractions for tourists. This can lead to misrepresentation and a dilution of cultural practices, undermining their significance within the community. Tourism initiatives must be led by Indigenous peoples themselves, ensuring that their cultures are represented authentically and respectfully.
Moreover, the influx of tourists can strain local resources and disrupt traditional ways of life. Environmental degradation, including increased waste and disturbance of wildlife, poses a direct threat to the delicate Arctic ecosystem. Indigenous communities are often at the forefront of these changes, facing the dual challenge of preserving their cultures while managing the impacts of tourism.
Conclusion
Management of the relationship between Arctic Indigenous cultures and tourism is complex and multifaceted. While tourism offers opportunities for cultural exchange, economic development, and increased awareness of Indigenous issues, it also presents challenges that must be navigated carefully. Tourism in the Arctic must be developed in collaboration with Indigenous communities. By respecting and honouring the rich cultural heritage of Arctic Indigenous peoples, tourism can become a powerful tool for cultural preservation and sustainable development, fostering a deeper understanding of the Arctic’s unique and fragile environment.
Professor Maurice Okoli is a fellow at the Institute for African Studies and the Institute of World Economy and International Relations, Russian Academy of Sciences. He is also a fellow at the North-Eastern Federal University of Russia. He is an expert at the Roscongress Foundation and the Valdai Discussion Club.
As an academic researcher and economist with a keen interest in current geopolitical changes and the emerging world order, Maurice Okoli frequently contributes articles for publication in reputable media portals on different aspects of the interconnection between developing and developed countries, particularly in Asia, Africa and Europe. With comments and suggestions, he can be reached via [email protected]
The Governor of Plateau State, Mr Caleb Mutfwang, has assured full government support for the N8.5 billion Hill Station Resort revitalization project, embarked on by Hillside Hospitality Limited, an investee company of Strom Infrastructure Investments and Management Limited. The renewed commitment came during a high-level stakeholder engagement meeting aimed at accelerating the historic resort’s transformation.
Speaking through the Secretary to the State Government, in Jos, Plateau State, on Monday, Mr Samuel Jatau, Governor Mutfwang emphasized the project’s significance to Plateau’s development agenda.
“The people of Plateau are diligent, hardworking, and committed. We will support and patronise this development to ensure its success,” he said.
The ambitious project, set to commence construction in March 2025, represents a strategic partnership between the Plateau State Government and Hillside Hospitality Limited. Following the signing of the Heads of Terms Agreement in July 2024, the initiative aims to restore the 1938 structure while introducing modern amenities and luxury facilities.
Speaking on the project’s vision, the Director of Hillside Hospitality Limited, Mr Kolapo Joseph, described the Hill Station project as a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to transform hospitality and tourism in Plateau State.
“This project is about more than just revitalisation, it is a dedicated effort to honour Hill Station’s rich heritage while introducing world-class hospitality standards.
“Our vision is to create a destination that seamlessly integrates luxury, culture, and nature, ensuring an exceptional experience for visitors in the heart of Jos.
“We recognise that Plateau State holds immense potential as a hospitality hub, and we are committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure this transformation drives economic growth, generates employment, and instils a renewed sense of pride in the community.
“Through collaboration and strategic investment, we aim to develop Hill Station Resort into a landmark destination that reflects the very best of Nigerian tourism,” he stated.
Mr Joseph expressed gratitude for the continued support from the Plateau State Government and private sector partners, adding: “This is not just an investment in infrastructure; it is an investment in Plateau’s future. We are creating a resort that will attract business and leisure travelers alike, unlocking new opportunities for the local economy while preserving the unique identity of this historic site.
“With the right partnerships, we will position Plateau State as a premier global tourism destination, one that showcases its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to the world.”
In his remarks, another Director of Hillside Hospitality, Mr Hakeem Condotti, highlighted Strom Infrastructure’s deep connection to Plateau State through its involvement with NESCO Nigeria.
“This investment demonstrates our commitment to preserving and enhancing historical landmarks while driving economic growth in the region,” he said.
The revitalized resort, scheduled for commissioning in the fourth quarter of 2025, will feature state-of-the-art conference facilities, premium accommodations, and leisure amenities, positioning Jos as a premier destination for business and leisure travel.
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
Two major airlines operating in the Nigerian airspace, Emirates and Air Peace, have signed an interline agreement to allow passengers enjoy frictionless single-ticket travel and simplified baggage throughput.
This deal will enable passengers flying from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Nigeria enjoy onward connections to Asaba, Akure, Benin City, Calabar, Enugu, Ilorin, Kaduna and Owerri, Abuja, Kano, Uyo, Port Harcourt and Warri.
Emirates operates the Dubai-Lagos route with a Boeing 777-300ER and some of its passengers continue their journeys to the above cities through other airlines, but with this interline agreement, when they land in Lagos, Air Peace will move them to the other cities with ease,
“Emirates is a steadfast partner of Nigeria’s tourism, trade and aviation sectors. This partnership with Air Peace is the next step on this journey, bolstering our connectivity and introducing more travel options for corporate leisure, and travellers visiting friends and family to and from Nigeria.
“We look forward to deepening our strategic partnership with Air Peace in the future to enhance the benefits for our mutual customers,” the Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer for Emirates, Adnan Kazim, said.
Also commenting, the Chief Operating Officer of Air Peace, Ms Oluwatoyin Olajide, said, “We are excited about this strategic interline partnership between Air Peace and Emirates, which is a significant step towards enhancing global connectivity for Nigerian travellers.
“It aligns with our mission to provide seamless, world-class travel experiences while expanding our route network and international reach.
“This collaboration not only expands Air Peace’s international reach but also offers Nigerians arriving from Dubai seamless access to key domestic destinations, including Asaba, Akure, Benin City, Calabar, Enugu, Ilorin, Kaduna, and Owerri.
“By improving ease of travel, we are boosting business, tourism, and trade opportunities, further strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and the UAE.
“This partnership also reinforces Nigeria’s aviation sector by enhancing connectivity, efficiency and positioning our country as a critical hub for regional and global travel. At Air Peace, we remain committed to providing greater connectivity, convenience, and world-class service for our passengers.”
The latest forecast from Astons, suggests that the number of applicants looking to secure a Greek Golden Visa in 2024 is set to increase for the fourth consecutive year.
Astons has analysed data around the number of Greek Golden Visa applications submitted on an annual basis between 2019 and November 2024, before forecasting what 2024’s annual application total is set to be once December’s numbers are accounted for.
The analysis reveals that 2024 finished on a high when it comes to demand for Greek Golden Visas.
By November, the estimated total number of applications stood at 8,059, with Aston’s analysis revealing that 995 were submitted in October alone, 914 submitted in November, and a forecasted total of 778 submitted in December.
2024’s enormous demand for Greek Golden Visas was driven by investors looking to get in ahead of significant changes implemented to the scheme which increased the minimum investment threshold to €800,000 across the entire Athenian Riviera, Thessaloniki, and all major islands.
This isn’t the first time that changes to the Greek Golden Visa programme have resulted in surging levels of demand.
In 2023, Greece raised the threshold for real estate investment from €250,000 to €500,000 in the most attractive and developed regions of the country, including all of central Athens. However, in the Athenian Riviera, certain areas retained a threshold of €250,000, such as the Piraeus region.
As a result of this change, 2022 saw an annual increase of 118.5% in the number of Golden Visa applications, followed by a further +94.8% increase in 2023.
Who is driving demand for Greek Golden Visas?
The high demand for Greek Golden Visas over the past two years in particular is being driven by wealthy US citizens looking to spread their risks and opportunities beyond the borders of North America, with demand being particularly influenced by the increased investment thresholds implemented in 2024.
Astons estimates that Greece is the focus of at least 50% of all Golden Visa applications by US citizens, with investors drawn to the country by the lifestyle offering, not to mention the attractive minimum investment contribution – for which investors get five years of residency for the whole family with a right to renew at the end of that term.
Furthermore, Greece currently has one of Europe’s most lucrative property markets and best performing economies.
Citizenship, residence permit, and real estate investment expert for Astons, Alena Lesina, commented:
“Looking ahead to 2025, we believe that demand for Greek golden visas will remain robust despite the recent changes made. This is because it is still possible to purchase real estate and obtain a residency permit for as little as €250,000, even in the very heart of Athens, provided that the property in question is converted from commercial use to residential. As such, we’re seeing a lot of developers now buying old hotels and office buildings and transforming them into modern residential complexes, complete with stunning swimming pools and terraces.
Another reason to expect further growth in demand for Greek visas in 2025 is the fact that Spain is about to close its own Golden Visa programme which was itself hugely popular. With Spain no longer available to expats, it’s reasonable to expect that Greece, with its similar lifestyle offering and even more affordable accessibility, will become the focus of their attention.”
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