In a landmark move to revitalize and reposition Nigeria’s tourism sector, the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has announced a strategic partnership with the African Travel Commission (ATC). The collaboration aims to drive sustainable tourism growth and foster deeper cultural exchange across Nigeria and the African continent.
The partnership was reinforced during a high-level meeting held at the NTDA Headquarters in Abuja, where Mr. Richard Ovie Esewhaye, Director Overseeing the Office of the Director-General, hosted the ATC delegation led by Executive Director, Dr. Lucky George.
Dr. George emphasized the importance of harnessing collective strengths to advance tourism initiatives, noting that Africa’s rich cultural and ecological assets can serve as powerful tools for regional integration and global engagement.
Responding, Mr. Esewhaye noted that tourism in Nigeria has often suffered from neglect and unfulfilled promises. However, he pledged that under the current administration, a new era of practical and impactful tourism development is underway.
Both parties agreed on the need to jointly develop campaigns that celebrate Nigeria’s vibrant cultural heritage and emerging travel experiences. A key outcome of the meeting was the decision to actively engage the travel press as a core stakeholder in shaping and sharing the tourism narrative.
“This partnership is a testament to our shared vision of transforming Nigeria and Africa’s tourism landscape,” Mr. Esewhaye said in his closing remarks. “It holds the potential to create jobs, enhance infrastructure, and attract a broader international audience.”
The partnership signals a renewed commitment to positioning tourism as a major driver of economic growth and cultural diplomacy across the continent.
[5/23, 12:48 AM] Maryam Aminu: From L-R, Prof. Wasiu Babalola, Ms. Esther Abolaji, Dr. Susan Akporiaye, Mr. Richard Ovie Esewhaye (Director Overseeing Office of DG), Mr. Lucky George (Executive Director, ATC) and Ms Hannatu Jimeta of Special Duties Dpt. after a visit by the ATC to NTDA in Abuja recently