October 06, (THEWILL) – At the World Tourism Day (WTD) celebrations, the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), played a pivotal role in exciting stakeholders by showcasing the potential of Nigeria’s tourism industry.
Ambassador Anago-Osho, Vice President of NATOP Southwest, noted that this year’s World Tourism Day (WTD) theme, “Tourism and Peace”, noted the focusing on innovative ways in growing the industry through collaborations between the private sector and government agencies.
Stakeholders, including tour operators, travel agents and government representatives, were particularly thrilled by the emphasis on sustainable tourism and the discovery of hidden gems across Nigeria. The event reinforced the significance of tourism as a critical sector for economic development.
While speaking, Anago-Osho, emphasised the exploration of historical sites, including the National Arts Theatre, home to the Universal Art Gallery and the Railway Museum, which showcases significant historical narratives.
The event aimed to uncover unknown tourist sites and foster collaboration among like-minded individuals to provide insights into these hidden treasures. Organised by NATOP in partnership with Lagos State government agencies, the celebration focused on promoting the state’s hidden historical heritage and monuments, while also showcasing indigenous tourism potential.
Activities included a visits to the Universal Arts Studio at the National Theatre in Iganmu and the Jaekel Museum in the old Railway compound in Ebute Meta. The Jaekel Museum highlights various railway activities and stories, while the Universal Arts Studio is known for producing artworks featured in galleries across Abuja and Lagos.
Speaking on the activities of the WTD Southwest Lagos Committee, Anago-Osho expressed gratitude to committee members for their unwavering commitment. “There are challenges, but we appreciate our collaboration with Lagos Mainland Local Government and Legacy 1995″, he stated.
He also acknowledged Mr Aregbe, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, for joining the event with his team in support of NATOP. The presence of Uzamat Akinbile-Yusuf, former Lagos State Commissioner of Tourism at the celebration underscored its importance.
Supporters of the event includes the Flyzone Tourism, GET Centre, POP Central, Loving Lagos and Goge Africa. Special acknowledgments were given to Chief Mrs Rasheedat Omolola Essien, the Executive Local Government Chairman of Lagos Mainland, Prince Abiola Olojo-Kosoko, head chief of the Kosoko family and Oloja elect of Lagos.
Notable figures in attendance included Mr Frank Meke, CEO and MD of Goge Africa, Amb. Isaac Moses, Nneka Isaac-Moses, VP FTAN Southwest, Mr Tunde Kolade and Mrs Aduke Gomez, former Senior Special Assistant to Governor Fashola, along with Mr Mattew Seni Gonzalo, former Director of Education at the British Museum, Mr Ajiboye, H.O.D of Tourism at Lagos Mainland Local Government and Mr Lawon Adams, CEO of Loving Lagos.
Cultural performances by Sigoart Edutainment and children from Ifelodun Nursery and Primary School in Mushin were highlights of the event, adding a festive atmosphere to the day.
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
