July 20, (THEWILL) – The National President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Mrs. Ime Udo, has described tourism as a vital instrument for the sustenance of the country’s economic growth.
Speaking at the 2024 NATOP Annual General Meeting and Tourism Conference on Thursday, in Ilorin, Kwara State, Udo said tourism has the capacity to bring people together from different countries and communities, thereby encouraging global citizenship and advancing peace and prosperity.
The conference titled “Tourism As A Catalyst For Progress, Peace, And Partnership”, was organised with the intention of promoting tourism through effective marketing techniques.
She expressed excitement for Kwara State’s leadership and applauded the State Governor, Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq, for using his leadership style to foster successful tourist growth.
She restated NATOP’s commitment to supporting actions and directives that have greatly engaged the government in promoting sustainable tourism growth in the host states.
“We are excited that it also allows tour operators to gain first-hand experience of these destinations, enabling them to curate tour packages to these places,” she stated.
The NATOP President noted that the organisers’ overwhelming support during the planning phase was evidence of the many activities that were observed.
“Today, we shall engage in meaningful deliberations, share best practices, and learn from each other’s experiences. We shall hear from eminent experts, policymakers, and practitioners who are shaping the future of tourism.
“Also, this is an opportunity to come together, learn, inspire each other, and shape a brighter future for tourism, progress, peace, and partnership,” Udo stated.
Speaking, the President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) and Chairman, Board of Trustees of NATOP, Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, commended the tour operators for the progress made in promoting and marketing Nigeria as a destination despite harsh economic realities, saying the association would continue to work tirelessly to create an enabling environment for members to thrive.
He called on members to remember the power of unity, collaboration, and innovation, and work together to promote sustainable tourism practices, enhance the quality of services they offer, and also showcase the beauty and diversity of Nigeria.
“Let us remember the power of unity, collaboration, and innovation. Let us work together to promote sustainable tourism practices, enhance the quality of our services, and showcase the beauty and diversity of our great nation,” he said.
A 10-man (six men and four women) panel discussion hosted by Amb. Ikechi Uko, the organiser of Akwaaba Travel Market, was the high point of the event. Several brands also made presentations during the event.
Experts also made recommendations to deal with the problems impeding the growth of tourism, which affects Nigeria’s economy.
Present at the event were the First Lady of Kwara State, Prof. Folake Abdulrazaq; Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John; Deputy President of FTAN, Mr. Badaki Aliyu; Dr. Kabir Ali, VP, North West Zone Council, FTAN; Hospitality and Tourism Management Association of Nigeria (HATMAN), and National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA).
Others are the Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari; Managing Director, Del-York Development Company, Stella Fubara; Director-General, Bureau of Tourism Development, Ekiti State, Wale Ojo-Lanre, and Uloma Egbuna, a member of the NATOP Board of Trust.
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
