By Taiye Olayemi

Exhibitors at the just concluded 19th AKWAABA Africa Travel and Tourism Market have commended the organisation of the fair.

The exhibitors who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in separate interviews said the three-day fair had been impactful on their business as well as educating.

NAN reports that the expo had no fewer that 2,500 delegates from across the globe in attendance.

Aniekan Essienette, Group Marketing Manager, Ibom Air,  said the expo was a good melting point for practitioners in the hospitality, tourism and travel industries.

She said it was a season of networking which would translate to growth in the airline’s business.

She advised that for subsequent editions, the organisers could engage more keynote speakers to educate the industry players for further improvement in their businesses

“We have been able to meet with tour operators and travel agents, we have heard their concerns and we have been able to expose them to new initiatives from us as well.

“This is possible through AKWAABA, we are happy and we look forward to the next edition,” she said.

Also, Oyindamola Fashogbon-Ibironke, Marketing Manager, Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort, expressed excitement, saying  that she was able to reach out to her targeted  audience.

Fashogbon-Ibironke said even as a first time visitor at the fair, she was educated on some businesses in the value chain of tourism, travels and hospitality.

She,  however,  commended the organiser, Mr Ikechi Uko,  for a well organised fair, as she advised that the next edition be held on a weekend.

According to her, this can  probably attract more visitors to the expo.

Foluke Femi-Sanda, Senior Brand Manager, Gino Nigeria, commended the organiser of the fair and described it as an interesting and rewarding one, which gave her an opportunity to  mingle with international delegates.

Femi-Sanda said the expo had been impactful on the company as revellers became familiar with most of its new products.

Emmanuel Mensah, Manager, Sales and Marketing, Royal Senchi Hotel and Resort, said “I have been attending AKWAABA since 2010, this year’s edition is the best so far, it is most impactful, I am not disappointed at all.”

NAN reports that African cuisines ranging from coffee, condiments and snacks, received huge attention from tourists at the fair.

AGino Nigeria, the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism and Ethiopia displayed cuisines across Africa. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Ebere Agozie
Prof. Nnenna Oti, the Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), has emerged winner of the 2023 woman of the year Leadership Excellence Awards.
In a seven-day Leadership Excellence (LEEX) Awards voting by Nigerians via online platforms, monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Oti was voted ahead of three other nominees.
The 2023 Awards is the fifth in the series and is organised annually by Igbere TV that recognises and honours the outstanding impacts of leaders across both public and private sectors in Nigeria.
Oti polled a total of 1,461,910 votes to defeat other nominees including popular Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Adichie; Borno First Lady, Falmata Zulum and Mokutima Ajileye, first female Nigerian Managing Director, Procter and Gamble (P&G), who got 508,695; 90,660 and 62,114 votes respectively.
NAN recalls that Oti made headlines in 2023 amid stalemate in announcing election results in Abia State during the last governorship election where she served as the INEC Returning Officer.
The accomplished scholar was said to have withstood pressure from powerful politicians inspite of the attractive monetary inducement and financial incentives she was allegedly offered to manipulate the election results.
She insisted that the will of Abia voters would not be subverted under her watch, amid the heavy intimidation and threats.
According to her, ‘the people’s mandate shall stand. I have spent all my adult life in pursuit of the ideals of good governance.
“We shall stand by the these principles. The pastor in me and the mother in me will not permit me to do anything that will adversely affect the future of our children”, she said.
Oti said that she had never in her life participated in any election, but when duty came calling she decided to do it with the fear of God.
“If I perish, I perish, they came with their threats, they came with their money, they came with their intimidation but God helped me.
“I stand here before God, Jesus Christ. I have never defrauded anyone, all I did was to declare the riot act as follows: Under me, votes must count. Under me, the people’s mandate will be upheld because I, Professor Nnnena Oti, can never do evil”, she said.
NAN also recalls that the prestigious LEEX Awards was endorsed by the African Union Economic, Social and Cultural Council (AU-ECOSOCC) 2020, and by the African Union Film Institute (AFI) in 2021.
LEEX Awards also promotes outstanding leaders and personalities whose impacts have been felt in Nigeria’s political, social and economic spheres.
The past winners of the ‘Woman of the Year’ Award were Dr Ngozi Okonjo Iweala (2020), Dame Judith Amaechi (2021), and Dr Betta Edu (2022)
The award will be presented to Oti alongside other winners of the various award categories on Nov. 4, in Abuja. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Benson Iziama/Ifeyinwa Omowole

By Ebere Agozie
The Secretary General of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), Mr Georges Chikoti, has described Nigeria as a Cultural Superpower.
Chikoti said this as the Special Guest of Honour at the Nigeria Arts and Culture Festival, organised by the Embassy of Nigeria in Brussels, in collaboration with Nigerian community/associations in Belgium, and the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA).
He said that Nigeria has left a footprint on the global space regarding the cinema industry (Nollywood) which provides a glimpse of the Nigerian culture to the world.
“Nigeria has promoted its culture through great writers like the Noble prize winner Wole Soyinka, the short story writer and novelist, Chimamanda Adichie, who has allowed both young and old generations to understand the Nigerian and African culture.
“It is also home to exceptional painters, musician’s stylists and designers, to name only but a few,” he said.
He commended the Embassy and others who put the Arts and Culture Festival together, adding that the event is a testimony of Nigeria’s commitment and determination to bring your culture to the world.
“As the Secretary-General of an organization that brings together 79 Member States across more than three continents, I am particularly pleased to be part of showcasing the cultural diversity of one of our eminent Member States.
“Cultural exchanges remain critical for development as they provide an opportunity to reach out to all the communities like many of those represented here today.
“These exchanges allow people to gain a deeper understanding of oneself and those around them, deepen knowledge of foreign cultures and strengthen international relationships.”
Chikoti said the event with the theme ‘Unity 2023’, will promote the importance of working closely together and promoting cultural exchanges for a better world.
“The mandate of OACPS is to support the cultural sector in guiding efforts to eradicate poverty and promote inclusive development that leaves no one behind.
“Today, the Nigeria arts and culture festival is making an extraordinary contribution to our efforts, and I’m looking forward to discovering the various events that will be presented to us today.
In his address, the Nigerian Ambassador to Belgium, Mr. Obinna Onowu, said the importance of art and culture in shaping the society cannot be overemphasized as Nigeria’s cultural heritage is not just a source of pride but a powerful tool for empowerment and growth.
“Our cultural heritage nurtures our sense of identity and belongings, while also providing economic opportunities, fostering tourism and creating spaces for innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Today is a reminder that while we embrace progress, we must never lose sight of our roots,” he added.
Onowu assured that the President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to boosting the tourism industry and encouraged Europeans and Africans to visit Nigeria and experience the country’s rich cultural heritage.
He commended Nigerians in the Arts and Entertainment world who have put Nigeria on the world map, adding that they have brought honour to Nigeria.
“Nigeria’s Nollywood is one of the biggest film industries in the world that is worth more than US$6.4 billion.
Also speaking at the event, Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah said the event provided a platform for Nigerian artists to showcase their talent and for the audience to experience the beauty and diversity of Nigerian arts.
Ubah, who is representing Anambra South Senatorial District at the Red Chamber, added that the event is a testament to the strong cultural ties between Nigeria and Belgium.
“Our culture is our heritage and we shall always engage in quality partnerships that will strengthen it,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vincent Obi

By Taiye Olayemi

The Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) says it generated N603 million from tickets sold across the country in August.

Its National Chairman, Mr Opeyemi Ajayi, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lagos, saying patronage at the cinemas in August was quite encouraging.

According to Ajayi, 212, 192 viewers were admitted into the cinemas within the perioid under review.

He said there was a sporadic improvement in sales and visitors patronage in  August as against figures  recorded in July.

“August was quite a beautiful month, we showcased beautiful movies like: Akuddaya, Meg 2, Teenage Mutant Minja, A Bag of Trouble, Blue beetle, Mikolo, The Modern Woman, Retribution and

Kesari.

“We had total sales of 603,588,722 with 212,192 viewers admission.

“This is an improvement in sales compared to July when we had N482,528,117 total sales.

“We want Nigerians to cultivate the habit of visiting the cinemas, it is a place to be to allay stress and unwind,” he said.

Ajayi said that cinema lovers should watch out for movies to be exhibited in September.

The movies are: Equaliser 3, A bag of trouble, Something like Gold, The Nun, Mami wata, Kanaani, A haunting in Venice, Expendables 4, Weekend to forget, The creator, and The dive and My big fat Greek wedding. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Taiye Olayemi

Wakanow Group, a travel agency,  on Monday in Lagos bagged the ‘Travellers Award’ as the best outbound travel agency in Nigeria, at the ongoing 19th AKWAABA Africa Travel and Tourism,

Also, Anago Osho, Chief Executive Officer of Anago Osho Adventures won the best inbound tour operator in Nigeria.

Mr Ikechi Uko, organiser of AKWAABA Africa Travel and Tourism Market,  said the award was to recognise and commend  individuals as well as organisations promoting tourism and travel businesses across Africa.

Uko said Wakanow’s commitment to promoting outbound travels in Nigeria was well recognised and commendable, as well as  Osho’s unwavering commitment toward promotimg inbound tours.

Other recipients of the awards are D&P Travels and Tours, as best outbound tour operator and Ebuking Tours as the best domestic tour operator in Nigeria among others.

Also, Mr Awomoyi Ayodeji of Flyzone Tourism won the travel personality of the year 2023.

Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines  of the event, Osho expressed excitement over the awards.

He said this would  spur him to work harder to project Nigeria more as a choice destination to visit.

“I feel honoured with this award and it is the first of its kind in Nigeria. Earlier this year, the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) gave me a similar award as the best Inbound Tour Operator in Nigeria.

“My award as the best Inbound Tour Operator in Nigeria here in AKWAABA means that someone or a group of people noticed the hardwork I put in the promotion of Nigeria as a tourist destination.

“It is about dedication, intergrity, patience and consistency.

“The award is a motivation to do more and this serves as a testimony that the tourism potential of Nigeria can be harnessed, standardised, promoted and equalled to the best in the world,” he said.

Osho advised upcoming tour operators in Nigeria to work on carving a niche for themselves in the tourism space and identify with a mentor who would further put them through.

He said they must be creative, consistent, patient and uphold intergrity.

“The major characteristics of Anago Osho are intergrity, creative tourism and the ability to identify and satisfy the interests of the tourists or visitors.

“I am an ambassador of the country and continent and that comes first in all my transactions and relationships. This is embedded in my works.

“In as much as the finance is important, my priorities are the proffessionalism I exhibit and absolute satisfaction of my clients,” he said.

Another award recipient, Ayodeji of Flyzone Tourism, commended the organisers for the initiative.

He promised to train more willing travel agents and tour operators in the country. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Priscilla Osaje

The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has urged the Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Ms Hannatu Musawa, to revisit some key film industry’s policies
that have the capabilities of enhancing the sector.

This is contained in a statement issued in Abuja on Friday by its Director, Public Affairs, Mr Brian Etuk.

Etuk said that the Managing Director of NFC, Dr Chidia Maduekwe, gave the advice while presenting a catalogue of film festival to the Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Ms Hannatu Musawa in Abuja.

Maduekwe noted that the policies would help in sustaining the sector’s contributions to content creation, effective film distribution and exhibition.

He added that the minster should also revisit training and capacity building, as well as the establishment of the National Film Development Fund (NFDF).

Maduekwe said the corporation had achieved 10-year hosting partnership with the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) in 2021 through a Memorandum of Understanding which designated Abuja as the official host city.

According to him, it is natural for Abuja to be named the official host city for the film festival in line with best global practices. For instance, the cities of Cannes, Toronto, Durban and others.

The NFC chief said that the film industry challenges that had slowed down the development process and growth rate of the sector, particularly the laws, including the NFC Act of 1979 that needed to be reviewed.

“This has never undergone any single amendment in the last 44 years, and other legal framework for the Motion Picture Practitioners Council (MOPICON)”, he said.

“The National Film Institute (NFI), Jos has continued to provide training and capacity building for Nigeria in film and television production, including entrepreneurial skills acquisition for youths across the geopolitical zones of the country.

“This is achieved through its Mobile Audiovisual Training Platform, aside the Master Degree Programme in Film Culture and Archiving Studies.

“The progress at the National Film Video and Sound Archive (NFVSA), recently designated the national repository for audio-visual heritage was also brought into focus,” he said.

Responding, the minister commended the NFC for its various achievements in spite of its obsolete law.

She acknowledged the critical role the film industry played and had continued to play in the growth and development of the nation’s economy.

The minister assured NFC that the government was determined to ensure an effective and efficient film industry.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo/Deji Abdulwahab

By Joshua Olomu

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and renowned singer, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Face, have been listed among the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that they were named among other Africans in the list released by the organiser on its website on Wednesday.

Other Nigerians who made the list included former SGF, Boss Mustapha, Tony Elumelu, Mohammed Abdullahi, Alhaji Imaan Ibrahim, Femi Otedola, Dr Stephen Akintayo, Farouk Khailann and Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Renowned clergy, Pastor Jerry Eze, Dr Daniel Moses, Mohammed Dewji, Mesfin Tasew Bekele, AIGP Aishatu Baju, Gabriel Aduda, Tein Jack-Rich, Tosin Eniolorunda, Dr Oluwatosin Olatujoye and Nollywood star, Rita Dominic also made the list.

Amb. Kinsley Amafibe, Project Director, Africa, for the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa, congratulated all Nigerians who made the list.

According to him, the peace icons are Africans drawn from different backgrounds, who have used their talents, positions and resources to build and promote peace across the continent.

He said the list was not exhaustive as there were other Africans who have contributed to peace building across the continent that would be identified and honoured in subsequent editions of the peace-building roll call.

“The 100 most notable peace icons in Africa come from diverse backgrounds and have different life experiences, but they all share a deep commitment to peace and non-violence.

“They have shown us that peace is achievable, and that each person can make a difference in building a better world.

“Through their leadership, activism, and humanitarian work, they have inspired millions of people around the world to join their movement and work towards a more just and peaceful future.

“Over the last three decades, our society has been tethering at the brink of global conflict and the pursuit of peace has given rise to some of the most remarkable individuals of our time,” he said.

He added that those who made the list were people who have dedicated their lives to promoting peace and justice in their communities, countries, and the world at large.

“As we honour these remarkable individuals, we are reminded of the importance of their work and the impact it has had on the world.

“We hope that their example will continue to inspire individuals and organisations around the world to work towards a more peaceful and just world for all,” he said.

He further said that the peace icons included Political Leaders who work tirelessly to resolve conflicts and promote diplomacy as well as activists who use their influence and resources to fight against injustice and inequality.

“We also have humanitarians who provide aid and relief to those in need especially during unrest, as well as artistes who use their craft to promote peace and unity in the world.

“There are real estate stakeholders who work with the humanitarians to provide safe space for homeless individuals and agricultural experts who sacrifice in ensuring Africa, is self-sustaining in food production.

“Also included are media personalities who are dedicated in ensuring that accurate information is passed and financial experts who use their financial strength to contribute to the growth of Peace among others,” he said.

NAN reports that other recipients across the continent included human right activist and African Affairs commentator P.L.O. Lumumba, Rwanda President, Paul Kagame; Seyi Vodi, Hajiya Salamatu Muktah, Josephine Nwaeze, Ayo Animashaun and Prof. Stevens Azaiki. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Deborah Coker/Sadiya Hamza

By Taiye Olayemi

The Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) says cinema-goers across Nigeria would enjoy discounted tickets on Saturday, Sept. 2, in commemoration of the International Cinema Day.

The National Chairman, CEAN, Mr Opeyemi Ajayi, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.

Ajayi said that the discount was targeted at rewarding cinema-goers, bringing back old customers and encouraging Nigerians to cultivate the habit of going to the cinemas.

“Nigeria’s cinemas join cinemas in the United Kingdom and United States of America to announce “The National Cinema Day” which takes place on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023.

“The Cinema Exhibitor’s Association of Nigeria welcomes moviegoers to celebrate a day at the movies with discounted tickets of N1,000 to kick-off the first National Cinema Day, on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023.

“This one-day event will be held at more than 50 Cinema locations across the Federation, with over 100 screens.

“We believe this will bring together audiences of all ages to enjoy a day at the movies and see any movie of their choice at a discounted ticket price of N1,000.

“We are doing this to say thank you to movie-goers and promote the cinema-going culture as well as to remind audiences about the magic of cinema,” the CEAN chairman said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluyinka Fadare