As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to observe World Tourism Day with the theme “Tourism and Peace”, the Senior Special Assistant to Abia State Governor on Tourism and Entertainment, Mr. Okey Justice Martins has called on Abians to embrace peace as a way of bridging cultural gaps, and promoting economic development of state.

Martins in a statement made available to the press explained that though the state has decided to mark the day with no activity as there are other state assignments the need for peace and promotion of Tourism in the state cannot be over-emphasized.

He noted that by valuing and preserving cultural and natural heritage, tensions can be reduced and peaceful coexistence nurtued while reaffirming the commitment of the state to the promotionpf tourism in the coming days.

For Mr. Martins tourism can also promote economic interdependence between neighbours, encouraging cooperation and peaceful development.