NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Alli, Folarin celebrate Olubadan at 90, first coronation anniversary
Culture & Tourism

Alli, Folarin celebrate Olubadan at 90, first coronation anniversary

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By Akeem Abas 

Sen. Sharafadeen Alli (APC- Oyo South) and Sen. Teslim Folarin have congratulated the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakunlehin, on his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary.

Alli, who is also the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, described the traditional ruler’s reign as peaceful, impactful and a great blessing to Ibadanland.

The lawmaker said that Oba Olakunlehin’s ascension to the throne came at a time Ibadanland needed a wise, experienced, and fatherly figure to steer the traditional institution towards greater progress.

He commended the traditional ruler for his commitment to the preservation of Ibadan customs and values, as well as his support for development and harmony across the land.

Alli also prayed the Almighty to bless the Olubadan with sound health, uncommon wisdom and many more years on the throne.

He wished him a joyous celebration of both his 90th birthday and coronation anniversary.

Similarly, Folarin, a former Senate Leader, extended heartfelt congratulations to the Olubadan on the occasion of his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary.

“Attaining the age of 90 is a remarkable feat, and we give thanks to the Almighty for the gift of life.

“As you celebrate this milestone, I’m certain your heart overflows with joy, reflecting on the incredible achievements of your life.”

Folarin, who is also the Aare Alaasa of Ibadanland, wished the Olubadan continued long life, wisdom and good health to serve his people.

He prayed that all his dreams and wishes for the people of Ibadanland come to fruition.

“On this joyous occasion, I wish you God’s abundant blessings and grant you many more years of fruitful service to Ibadanland.

Long live Your Imperial Majesty. Long live Ibadanland,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Bayo Sekoni

Experts call for academia-industry partnership in hospitality
Culture & Tourism

Experts call for academia-industry partnership in hospitality

71 total views today

 

 

 

 

 

By Joan Odafe

Hospitality and tourism experts have called for a stronger collaboration between academic institutions and industry practitioners to prepare young Nigerians for meaningful careers in the sector.

 

The experts made the call during a panel session at a summit for students in hospitality and tourism on Friday in Lagos.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, ‘Hospitality and Business Summit (HBS) 2025’, was organised by Tourism and Hospitality Mentorship for Development (TMD) Brand, in collaboration with Eko Hotels and Suites.

 

The event had the theme, ‘Wonders of Today, Leaders of Tomorrow: Positioning for Global Impact – The Role of Youth in the Industrial Revolution’.

 

The panelists called on academic institutions to urgently reform internship structures and student engagement strategies to bridge the widening gap between classroom theory and practical realities.

 

The Managing Director of Eko Hotels and Suites, Mr Ghassan Faddoul, said the most urgent shift needed to prepare young people for the hospitality sector was to bridge the gap between academics and the practical.

 

Faddoul said schools had to make their internship programme compulsory every year, from year one for every student, so they could undergo hands-on training.

 

“We don’t take it lightly here because we don’t just do trainings. We do training and development.

 

“When we train someone, we train for him or her to do the job better but when we develop our employees and interns, we develop them to become a better person, a better manager, a better employee,” he said.

 

Rita Opiah, General Manager, Radisson Hotel Group, said in addition to the compulsory annual internship, there was need for accountability on the part of the institutions, through enforcement of the training.

 

Opiah urged leaders of tourism and hospitality institutions to be more intentional, by ensuring that the students are present for the exact duration planned for.

 

“You have to come onsite and ensure a task force that will also talk with the industry leaders, to monitor them and see what they are doing, and also hear our feedback,” she said.

 

Opiah also called for collaboration among stakeholders, noting that the tourism and hospitality industry had a lot of career opportunities including travels, event management, tour operators, resort management, marketing destination tourism and travel events.

 

Yvonne Joseph, a hospitality career mentor and advisor, however, said that youth disinterest in hospitality was a major concern, with many of the mindset that the sector was boring.

 

Joseph said: “They want to express their creative side in their businesses.

 

“Even if they are working in the front desk or doing their internship in the front desk, they want to see how they can make it more fun.”

 

She urged industry leaders, that by giving students and interns room to share ideas, they were helping to close gaps in the industry.

 

She added that their suggestions could also impact meaningfully on their businesses.

 

In response, Susan Akporiaye,former president of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA), said apart from hotels, there were vast opportunities in travel and tourism.

 

Akporiaye cautioned the students against the notion that because they were in the digital age, they had nothing to learn from the older players in the industry.

 

She urged them to blend the age of humanity and technology, as well as improve on skills that would ensure they are employable in the industry.

 

The Director of Sales and Marketing of Eko Hotels and Suites, Dr Iyadunni Gbadebo, urged the students to explore ways in ensuring that content creation is seen as a serious role within the industry.

 

Gbadebo urged stakeholders in travel, tourism and hospitality to collaborate to sell ‘Destination Nigeria’ for national growth.

 

Also, the General Manager of Eko Hotels and Suites, Mr Danny Kioupouroglou, emphasised the need for training, hard work and focus as important factors that would make the students best leaders in the industry.

 

Citing examples of his growth in the industry, Kioupouroglou told the students that he started off at the lowest level, took up difficult roles, made mistakes before he eventually got to his present position.

 

“Leadership isn’t about showing off. It’s about showing up; before you can lead, you have to serve,” he said.

 

In his remarks, the South-West Regional Coordinator of TMD Brand, Temitope Sadiq, said the summit was aimed at exposing students in tourism, hospitality and transportation to veterans in the industry, so they could gain more insight and leverage their experience.

 

NAN reports that no fewer than 2,000 students from various schools across the nation attended the programme. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Nigeria, Saint Lucia sign MoU to boost tourism, creative industries
Culture & Tourism

Nigeria, Saint Lucia sign MoU to boost tourism, creative industries

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By Joshua Olomu

Nigeria and Saint Lucia have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster robust partnerships in tourism, the Orange Economy, and investment in the creative industries.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the agreement was signed on Wednesday during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to the Caribbean nation.

According to Hannatu Musawa, Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, who signed on behalf of the Federal Government, the MOU offers a strategic framework to leverage complementary strengths.

Musawa described the development as the dawn of a new era in Africa-Caribbean relations, adding that the agreement will promote bilateral participation in cultural festivals, exchange programmes, fashion collaborations, and museum development initiatives.

She said the partnership aimed to leverage Nigeria’s globally celebrated creative industries, including Nollywood, Afro Beats, fashion, and storytelling, alongside Saint Lucia’s world-class tourism and community-based tourism models.

The minister said the MOU would focus on co-development of creative economy programmes, youth-centred exchanges, and strengthening of value chains for fashion, textiles, and artisanal industries.

She said plans were underway for joint participation in major cultural festivals, including Saint Lucia’s renowned Jazz Festival.

“Nigeria has mastered the art of creative industry and culture, from Nollywood to music to storytelling. Saint Lucia, on the other hand, has perfected the tourism model.

“This collaboration allows us to exchange expertise and co-develop our capacities in both sectors.

“This partnership can generate immense value for both our countries but more importantly, it can inspire the global Black community,” she said.

Dr Ernest Hilaire, Saint Lucia’s Minister for Tourism, Culture, and the Creative Industries, described the agreement as a formal reconnection of peoples separated by history but united by heritage.

“This agreement is about formally re-establishing those ancestral links. From music and dance to fashion and sports, Nigeria has been an inspiration.

“We have enjoyed Nigerian talent at our Jazz Festival in recent years, and this MOU gives us the opportunity to deepen that relationship,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

Don calls for investment in tourism to reduce oil dependency, boost economy
Culture & Tourism

Don calls for investment in tourism to reduce oil dependency, boost economy

121 total views today

 

 

 

 

By Olajide Idowu

A Professor of Sustainable Tourism Management, Bola Adeleke, says tourism can be used as a catalyst to shift the country’s dependancy on oil and boost its economy.

Adeleke of the  Redeemer’s University, Ede, in Osun, made the remarks on Thursday in Ede while delivering the 19th inaugural lecture of the university.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the lecture had as its theme “Sustainable Tourism: An Impetus for National Development”.

Adeleke said that sustainable tourism, which encompassed people, planet, and profit, could be used as a catalyst for national development and bring about economic, social, and environmental developments.

“Economically, it generates significant revenue, creates jobs, and stimulates local economies, contributing to national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and reducing poverty.

“It can diversify Nigeria’s oil-dependent economy, create jobs, and stimulate local businesses.

“Socially, it would preserve our cultural heritage, foster intercultural understanding, and enhance community well-being.

“Environmentally, it can protect biodiversity and mitigate climate impacts through ecotourism initiatives in our national parks and protected areas.

“Globally, tourism contributes 10 per cent to GDP and one in ten jobs,” she said.

Adeleke referenced the World Tourism Organisation’s 2021 report, which said that in 2019, tourism generated $1.7 trillion in export earnings.

The don said that the tourism sector accounted for 3.6 per cent of the country’s 2022 GDP of $17 billion, and also created employment for about two million people.

She admonished the government to tap into and harness the great potentials in tourism to boost revenue and foreign exchange earnings.

Adeleke, however, said that the government needed to deal with the issues of insecurity and upgrade the tourist sites in the country to attract foreign tourists.

Earlier, Prof. Shadrach Akindele, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, said that tourism was one of the areas where the country had great potential.

Akindele said that tourism could boost the country’s foreign reserves and attract a lot of foreign exchange.

“With so many tourist sites in the country, Nigeria is sitting on a goldmine,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Victor Adeoti/Ayodeji Alabi

Korean centre seeks Nigerians’ collaboration to promote Korean traditional music
Culture & Tourism

Korean centre seeks Nigerians’ collaboration to promote Korean traditional music

160 total views today

By Priscilla Osaje

Mr Jeon Ju Ho, Director, Korean Cultural Centre in Nigeria (KCCN), has called on Nigerians to collaborate with the Korean community to promote the country’s traditional music infused in K-pop.

Ju Ho made the call at the opening of the exhibition of ‘K-pop Meets Korean Traditional Music’ in Abuja.

The exhibition is aimed at exploring the fusion of Korea’s rich musical heritage with the global influence of contemporary K-pop

K-pop, which originated from Korea, is now adored by countless fans around the world, and its music contains elements of Korean traditional music, providing a deeper emotional impact.

The ‘K-pop Meets Korean traditional music’ is co-hosted by the National Gugak Centre and KCCN.

It is part of the 2025 ‘Touring K-Arts Programme by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and Korea Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE).

The exhibition aims to introduce the new artistic attempts created when K-pop and Korean traditional music meet within the flow of Korean wave, with original forms of Korean traditional music that could be seen within K-pop

Ju Ho said the exhibition focused on Korean traditional music in the bond with the K-pop, which was the core of the ‘Hallyu’ that could foster the cultural exchange between Korea and Nigeria.

According to him, the event shows how Korean traditional music is being interpreted with K-pop.

It presents branches of Korean traditional music that could be found in various K-pop works that are divided into three categories.

“KCCN is promoting Korean traditional music to Nigerians, hoping for more collaborations and opportunities that traditional Nigerian music can also be introduced to Korea.

“The purpose of the exhibition is to introduce Korean traditional music to the Nigerian audience by bringing the medium of K-pop, which they are all familiar with.

“It is obvious that many Nigerians do not know about Korean traditional music, the reason we decided to bring Korean traditional music instruments that are also used in K-pop music.

“People will not have interest when it comes to traditional things because they are used to K-pop,” he said.

The director said the event would foster a great opportunity to collaborate with Korean traditional music or Afrobeat, adding that such would be an interesting trial.

“When it comes to Korean traditional music, to be honest, there has not been any collaboration around Afrobeat.

“This exhibition is from the National Gugak Centre, which is the primary institution of learning for Korean traditional music, not only the Korean Culture Centre.

“The government and institutions are searching for more collaboration and opportunities to bring the arts for exchanges to the next level,” he added.

KCCN director Jeon Ju Ho and audience at the event

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some of the Korean traditional costumes and musical heritage were showcased at the exhibition.

They include Nong-ak, cheonnyeomense (pungnyu), Gayageum, Yonggo, Jing, Jabara, Taepyeongso, Chwibali mask of Bongdan Talachim, Malttugi mask of Bongdan Talachim, among others.

NAN reports that the exhibition offered a unique journey through Korea’s musical heritage, featuring traditional instruments, native costumes, spirit of Korean masquerades alongside the dynamic global phenomenon of K-Pop.

The Korean community, through fusion and modernity, showcased Korean culture based on how the rhythms of the past still echo in the music of today.

It also shares the experience in Nigeria, a nation that deeply values its traditions.

The highlight of the event was the K-pop dance performance, Korean traditional instruments exhibition, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Lagos backs 2025 African Cultural Festival
Culture & Tourism

Lagos backs 2025 African Cultural Festival

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By Aderonke Ojediran

The Lagos State Government has endorsed the 2025 African Cultural Festival, calling it a tool for tourism promotion, economic growth, and diaspora engagement.

With the theme ‘Africa to the World: Culture, Creativity, and Collaboration,’ the festival will include pre-event activities in Lagos starting July.

The main celebration will hold in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, from Sept. 19 to 20, drawing international attention to African heritage.

This is contained in a statement on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Idris Aregbe.

Aregbe said the initiative has received full backing from the governor and aligns with the administration’s THEMES+ agenda.

He described the event as a strategic move to promote cultural diplomacy and diversify the state’s economic base.

According to Aregbe, Lagos’s involvement reflects a deliberate effort to position the state as a global cultural powerhouse.

He added that heritage promotion offers viable opportunities for economic growth and international relevance.

“Though colourful on the surface, this is a chance to share our stories and join the league of global cultural centres,” Aregbe stated.

He noted that Lagos would send a delegation of creatives, entrepreneurs, and innovators to the international event.

Sanwo-Olu, he said, sees the festival as a platform for deep and lasting socio-economic transformation.

“This initiative promotes unity and increases diaspora involvement in shaping Africa’s future.

“Building the Africa of our dreams demands purpose and unwavering commitment from all who believe in her,” Aregbe said.

He revealed that the festival will honour cultural icons such as Nike Okundaye of Nike Art Gallery and Miss Phipps.

These honours will be part of the ‘Celebrating African Elders’ segment of the international showcase.

Other features include the Africa Arise Leadership Summit, ACF Marketplace, and Taste of Africa culinary experience.

Additional highlights include the African I-D-E-N-T-I-T-Y Exhibition, NextGen Connect Youth Forum, and ACF Runway.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the African Diaspora Summit and the official launch of Duduplugs will also be part of the festival.

Duduplugs, described as a creative innovation hub, aims to link Africa’s creative economy to global platforms.

It is expected to boost interest in Lagos tourism and strengthen economic-cultural ties with the world.

The event is powered by ACI Entertainment, with operations in both Lagos and Pennsylvania.

The company’s mission is to showcase Africa’s rich cultural capital and creative economy globally. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

‎Our ancestors traced to Nigeria – Saint Lucian Senate President
Culture & Tourism , Foreign

‎Our ancestors traced to Nigeria – Saint Lucian Senate President

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‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President of the Saint Lucian Senate, Alvina Reynolds, has highlighted the strong ancestral connections between Nigeria and Saint Lucia.

‎Reynolds cited data from a British census conducted on the island in 1815, revealing that many Saint Lucians trace their origins to Nigeria.

‎She made this known while welcoming President Bola Tinubu to a joint session of Saint Lucia’s bicameral parliament on Monday.

A statement on the joint session issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga was made available to newsmen on Monday in Abuja.

‎“Of the 16,282 enslaved people in Saint Lucia that year, 3,488 were born in Africa.”

‎”Of these, 34 per cent were from Nigeria, 11 per cent from Nigeria-Cameroon, and 22 per cent from the Congo.”

‎”The remaining 12,794 were born in Saint Lucia, with most of their forefathers coming from Sene-Gambia and Nigeria,” she said.

‎She described President Tinubu’s visit as historic for both the Parliament and the people of Saint Lucia.

‎According to Reynolds, the transatlantic slave trade, spanning over 350 years, forged enduring cultural ties between Africa and the Caribbean.

Reynolds called the visit, “a mission to reunite us with our homeland and for our people to work together.”

‎The Senate President also paid tribute to Sir Darnley Alexander, a Saint Lucian who served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979.

‎“This mission, Your Excellency, continues with Catholic priests from Nigeria who have answered the call and come to Saint Lucia to serve, one of whom is our special guest this morning—Father Festus.”

‎“Your address to this Parliament today could not have occurred at a more auspicious time, for today is World Parliament Day—an occasion to reflect on the essential role of Parliament and the service we provide as representatives to our people.”

‎In response to Tinubu’s speech, Prime Minister Philip Pierre described the State Visit as a moment of “freedom and celebration.”

‎Pierre acknowledged deep ancestral and emotional ties with West Africa, calling Saint Lucia “a small fragment of Africa.”

‎“Our people have been separated, but nothing has ever been able to separate us spiritually and culturally from West Africa, where some of our ancestors came from and for whom our hearts continually yearn.”

‎“We are African people who have made permanent homes for ourselves on this side of the Atlantic, on the hills and valleys of the plantations on which we were enslaved.

‎”But, we have built these homes, Mr. President, not for ourselves, but in the service of all humanity, especially Africa, in whose direction we continually watch, wait, hope and pray for our future redemption,” he said.

‎Pierre humorously noted that, Saint Lucia’s population is smaller than Eti-Osa Local Government in Lagos.‎

‎Nonetheless, the Prime Minister affirmed the island’s pride as a sovereign nation “deeply connected to the world, Nigeria, and West Africa.”

‎He also acknowledged the Nigerian community’s contributions in healthcare, religion, cuisine, tourism, and social development.

‎“We warmly welcome every Nigerian hand of support and embrace with gratitude their contributions to Saint Lucia’s cultural, social, and economic development.”

‎”We are the richer for it,” he said.

‎Reflecting on Africa-Caribbean relations, Pierre welcomed progress since the first Africa-CARICOM Summit in 2021 and anticipated the next summit in Addis Ababa.

‎He listed potential cooperation areas, including tourism, air travel, creative industries, fintech, sports, renewable energy, and medical services.

‎Pierre noted that while Saint Lucia receives over one million tourists annually, few come from Nigeria due to limited air connectivity.‎

‎He proposed partnerships in sports, especially football and cricket, and urged Nigerian fintech and healthcare professionals to explore Saint Lucia’s expanding sectors.

‎The joint session was attended by diplomats, dignitaries, and top leaders from across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Abuja to celebrate Leboku New Yam Festival in August
Culture & Tourism

Abuja to celebrate Leboku New Yam Festival in August

243 total views today

By Fortune Abang

The Kedei Seh Umor-Otutu, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, has reiterated its commitment to promote Nigerian cultural heritage through Leboku-in-Abuja-2025 Festival.

Queency Patrick, President of Kedei Seh Umor-Otutu, a community-based association, said this at the news briefing organised by the association.

The briefing was against the backdrop of preparations for the forthcoming festival with the theme: “A Celebration of Heritage, Unity and Harvest.”

She explained that Leboku-in-Abuja-2025 was an internationally acclaimed New Yam Festival that is celebrated on August 30 in Abuja, under the auspices of Kedei Seh Umor-Otutu, an association of Yakurr indigenes of Cross River who reside in the FCT.

Patrick said, “Leboku-in-Abuja-2025 aligns with national goals of cultural preservation, inter-ethnic harmony and in promoting Nigeria as a cultural destination.

“The Federal Capital Territory provides the ideal backdrop to unite heritage and modernity, welcoming all who believe in peace, identity and pride of origin.

“For us, it is not just a cultural event, it is a call to national unity, peace and cultural tourism development.

“It is also an opportunity for us to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Yakurr people in Cross River, the South-South and South-East in the nation and the world at large.

“The event fosters appreciation of Nigeria’s diverse ethnic-root and culture. Leboku-in-Abuja is more than a festival, it is a stage for celebrating our cultural identity, building bridges through tradition and encouraging investment in the creative economy and tourism sector,” she said.

According to her, Mr Obi Asika, Director General/CEO of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), had in a letter which formally endorsed the association’s collaboration with government, described Leboku-in-Abuja, as an annual New Yam Festival celebrated in Abuja by Yakurr people of Cross River.

She quoted him saying “the Leboku Festival, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Yakurr people of Cross River, has long been a symbol of unity, celebration, and agricultural prosperity.

“Bringing this renowned festival to Abuja will provide a unique opportunity for cultural exchange, tourism development, and deeper appreciation of our diverse traditions.

“It aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and NCAC’s mandate to promote arts and culture, as drivers of creative economy,” Asika added.

The organisers revealed the event would provide a platform for public lecture, economic empowerment, traditional food festival, cultural and arts exhibition, sports, agriculture, trade and tourism development.

The event, scheduled to hold at the Bolton White event centre, Wuse Zone 7, Abuja, is centred on promoting unity and peace with the toga: “One Yam, One People.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Nkiru Ifeajuna/Magdalene Ukuedojor

Tour operators seek solutions to ease cross-border travel in West Africa
Culture & Tourism

Tour operators seek solutions to ease cross-border travel in West Africa

191 total views today

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Folasade Adeniran

 

 

 

Tour operators from across West Africa are calling for immediate reforms and practical solutions to tackle the persistent challenges faced during cross-border travel within the sub-region.

 

 

 

The operators made the call during a panel session at the ongoing eighth edition of West African Travel Expo (Accraweizo 2025), on Friday in Ghana.

 

 

 

The theme of the event is “Reimagining the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol”.

 

 

 

Mrs Bolaji Mustapha, President, Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), said that Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are vital for achieving seamless cross-border travel in West Africa.

 

 

 

“Tour operators need to move first while awaiting policy changes.

 

 

 

“The private sector must begin to push forward, just like in Kenya. The government followed the lead of the private tourism industry there,” she said.

 

 

 

She urged governments in the region to collaborate on infrastructure development, such as border facilities, roads, and transportation systems.

 

 

 

“There is a need for a good road network that will enhance seamless travel, and by so doing, airfare will reduce drastically.

 

 

 

“In many cases, it’s cheaper to fly to Europe than to a neighbouring West African country,” she said.

 

 

 

She also noted that creating bi-lingual content collaboration would bridge the region’s language divide.

 

 

 

“This will help in showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.”

 

 

 

Recounting a recent experience at the Kotoka International Airport in Accra, where immigration officials handled her documentation hiccup with professionalism, Mustapha stressed that such gestures could significantly alter perceptions about travelling in West Africa.

 

 

 

“These small acts of courtesy and efficiency build confidence in regional travel,” she said.

 

 

 

Also, Patience Okorie, Managing Director of God’s Own Travel Agency in Togo, said that a comprehensive tourism directory would give local operators better visibility to connect with regional players.

 

 

 

“A directory that covers multiple countries and inclusion of cultural festivals from across West Africa in cross-border travel itineraries will create value for both visitors and operators,” Okorie said.

 

 

 

On her part, Ayi Okoumassoun of Jessika Tours, Benin,reflected on the daily challenges operators face when traversing borders.

 

 

 

“Our fundamental need as tour operators is the ability to move freely from one country to another.

 

 

 

“Without that, we cannot work effectively,” she said.

 

 

 

Moderator of the session, Obama Ojukwu of Gota International, emphasised the role of the media in shaping positive narratives around West African tourism. (NAN) (www.nannews.g)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Experts underscore need for tourism development in West Africa
Culture & Tourism

Experts underscore need for tourism development in West Africa

158 total views today

 

 

 

 

By Folasade Adeniran

 

Tourism experts across West Africa have underscored the need to accelerate the development of the region’s tourism sector, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote cultural exchange.

 

They made these remarks at the eighth edition of the West African Travel Expo (Accraweizo 2025), which began on Friday in Ghana.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event focuses on seamless travel in West Africa, exploring its opportunities and challenges, and features a summit for West African tour operators.

 

It has the theme: “Reimagining The ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol”.

 

Dr Tony Luka-Elumelu, Director, Private Sector, ECOWAS Commission, stated that tourism in Africa encompasses a wide range of experiences and benefits beyond mobility.

 

According to him, there is a growing demand for tourism in West Africa and the continent in general, driven by increasing disposable incomes and a desire for unique experiences.

 

He said, “Tourism is something that should flow within Africa.

 

“If we have all the sites that we talk about; hotels; whatever it is, if we protect them with the kind of passion that we ought to, we will find out that we will make Africa a destination continent.”

 

The director noted that ECOWAS had made significant contributions to tourism in West Africa through various initiatives.

 

He explained that some of these include a capacity-building programme, launched to equip stakeholders with essential tools to improve tourism standards, attract investment, and enhance cooperation across member states.

 

Luka-Elumelu added that ECOWAS also introduced the ECOTOUR Policy, a comprehensive framework aimed at making West Africa a competitive and preferred global tourism destination.

 

“This policy focuses on improving tourism standards, creating job opportunities, and ensuring smoother travel across the region,” he explained.

 

Luka-Elumelu further stated that ECOWAS is working to standardise tourism services, including hotel classification, to build trust and attract investment.

 

“This initiative aims to ensure that hotels across member states meet the same standards,” he said.

 

According to him, these initiatives demonstrate ECOWAS’ commitment to developing the tourism sector in West Africa, promoting economic integration, and improving the lives of its citizens.

 

Similarly, Prof. Kobby Mensah, Chief Executive Officer, Ghana Tourism Development Company (GTDC), noted that tourism is crucial for West Africa’s economic growth and development.

 

Mensah stressed the importance of delivering tailored tourism experiences that meet the needs of different visitor segments, leveraging technology and innovative processes to enhance the tourism experience.

 

He emphasised that digital transformation is key to unlocking Africa’s tourism potential, citing the need for seamless, tech-enabled interactions, from digital booking systems to immersive cultural experiences powered by technology.

 

“I have always thought that we haven’t really taken the big initiative that we have to, that could actually scale this sector.

 

“The continent has so much to give, but we haven’t been bold enough to let the continent give what it has to, and it looks like the tourism sector is just doing the same thing.

 

“This continent is absolutely tourism; the sector needs that kind of boldness to venture into spaces. And what will it take? It will take research,” he said.

 

In his presentation, Mr Gideon Asare, Managing Director, Adansi Travels, urged destination marketers to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool to enhance the visitor experience, increase tourism revenue, and promote sustainable practices within the sector.

 

He encouraged operators in the sector to tap into AI-enabled platforms to enhance their jobs.

 

In his remarks, Mr Ikechi Uko, organiser of the Accra Weizo Travel Expo, said the travel event is targeted at fostering seamless travel in West Africa.

 

According to him, the goal is to improve travel and tourism growth in West Africa through easy access to towns and cities within the region, improving and simplifying airport and border processes, among other things.

 

“West Africa is the biggest region in Africa, with over 400 million people rich in culture and tourist attractions.

 

“It receives the least number of tourists, yet West African countries generate the highest number of outbound travellers in Africa.

 

“There is a need to encourage West Africans to travel within the region, and this is the goal of Accra Weizo.

 

“To make this happen, there is a need to create a seamless travel environment.

 

“This will make West Africa an open domestic market, harnessing the market and opportunities within, which is the goal of Accra Weizo,” he added.

 

NAN reports that the event drew stakeholders from countries in the region including Nigeria,Ghana, The Gambia, Togo, Benin Republic, Senegal, and Ivory Coast among others. (NAN)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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