The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has pledged to strengthen collaboration with the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) in driving the newly introduced Tourism Transformation Mandate. This commitment was made today at the NTDA headquarters in Abuja when the new FTAN executive council, elected on July 31, 2025 paid a courtesy visit to the Authority.

Speaking during the visit, the FTAN President, Dr. Aliyu Badaki appreciated NTDA for its consistent support to the Federation. He reaffirmed FTAN’s role as the coordinating body of tourism businesses in Nigeria, stressing the need for closer collaboration.

He further recalled FTAN’s contributions during the passage of the NTDA Act, highlighting that the Federation had raised key observations and provided recommendations.

“We are here for support and clarity to avoid unnecessary rancor in the sector,” he said.

The President noted that the Federation’s new Tourism Transformation Mandate will reposition the private sector for growth and innovation. “Once launched, NTDA will be carried along, and we urge the Authority to be part of it,” he added.

FTAN’s First Deputy President, Mrs. Susan Akporiaye, explained that the mandate is aimed at making a lasting impact in the industry. She appealed to NTDA’s Tourism Projects and Investment Department to work closely with FTAN in mobilizing tourism investment. She also called for government support to secure a befitting secretariat for the Federation, describing it as critical to its national and international engagements.

Additionally, she advocated for stronger synergy between NTDA zonal offices and FTAN’s zonal vice presidents to move the sector forward.

Commenting, FTAN’s Treasurer, Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha, commended NTDA for its unwavering support especially in making referrals that help regulate and strengthen the industry.

In his response, the Director overseeing the Office of the Director General, NTDA, Mr. Ovie Richard Esewhaye, congratulated FTAN on its peaceful elections and stressed the need for diversification. “This is the time for us to diversify away from oil. At NTDA, we are emphasizing Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) as a means of funding tourism projects,” he said.

He encouraged FTAN to submit its formal recommendations on the NTDA Act for review. He also highlighted the importance of strict compliance with legally defined operational mandates of MDAs. “Adhering to these regulations is critical to avoid overlap of duty and to ensure sustainable growth in the tourism eco-system”, he said.

The Director of Special Duties, NTDA, Mr. F.O. Anumba, also commended FTAN, particularly NANTA, for ensuring Nigeria’s representation at the World Travel Market, in the past despite financial challenges.
The visit ended with the decoration of the FTAN President as a Tourism Ambassador of Nigeria, as well as the exchange of souvenirs between both organizations.