The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to positioning tourism as a catalyst for national growth and sustainable transformation as it joined the global community to mark World Tourism Day 2025. The celebration, held on Saturday, 27th September 2025 at the Chinese Cultural Centre, Abuja, brought together stakeholders to spotlight tourism’s role in driving inclusive development and unlocking Nigeria’s vast cultural and creative potential.

Speaking at the occasion, the Director overseeing the Office of the Director-General, Mr Ovie Richard Esewhaye emphasized the importance of the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) initiative in raising global awareness about tourism as a strong pillar of development.

This year’s theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” underscores the sector’s ability to drive local economies, create jobs, foster entrepreneurship, and stimulate collaboration across multiple industries.

“The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority has consistently focused on supporting the nation’s creative and cultural assets through partnerships, collaborations, and both digital and physical promotion of our rich music, film, dance, fashion, cuisine, and festivals,” he noted.

Esewhaye reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to fully harness the benefits of the sector, calling on stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to join hands in building a vibrant tourism industry.

“The potentials of tourism are enormous, and we all have a shared responsibility to ensure it is fully realized. Tourism entrepreneurs are therefore encouraged to embrace technology for wider reach to potential tourists while ensuring effective service delivery and sustainable practices to grow and protect the tourism industry,” he added.

The Authority pledged its continued commitment to strengthening partnerships that would elevate Nigeria’s cultural and natural assets, positioning the country as a competitive destination in the global tourism market.

As the event came to a close, the NTDA urged Nigerians to “celebrate, think, and act for a positive tourism transformation,” in line with the spirit of World Tourism Day.