FTAN President Nkereuwem Onung Receives NIG-BEN Tourism Award 2024 in Cotonou
Strengthening Bilateral Ties Through Tourism Development
Cotonou
The Nigeria-Benin Tourism Forum 2024, recently held at the prestigious Benin Royal Hotel in Cotonou, culminated in a celebration of cross-border tourism cooperation. Nkereuwem Onung, President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), was recognized with the NIG-BEN Tourism Award 2024. for his outstanding contribution to the advancement of Tourism within Nigeria and between the two countries. Themed “Harnessing Tourism Potential for Mutual Development,” the forum was organized by Kalo Africa Media and Exparts Partner, in collaboration with Consortium Touristes Par Millions Au Benin (CTM-BENIN) and the African Tourism Board (ATB).
His award was eminently presented to him by His Eminence Dada Daagbo Honoun, and in his acceptance speech, Onung expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the event organizers for this timely initiative. He highlighted the significance of tourism in fostering development between Nigeria and Benin, noting that such collaborative platforms are key to unlocking the economic and cultural potential of the two West African nations.
He further pledged his unwavering support for future initiatives emanating from this partnership, recognizing the importance of sustained cooperation for regional tourism growth.
Dignitaries at the event included, Hon. Dine Bouraima, the President of Consortium Touristes Par Millions Au Benin-the umbrella body for all the tourism associations in Benin Republic, who is also the Vice President of the African Tourism ; Hon. Luc Akropoto, Mayor of Cotonou, represented by Madam Artlett Zainonoun among other numerous tourism stakeholders from both countries.
Nigeria and Benin in the Tourism Landscape
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is renowned for its diverse cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and expansive natural landscapes. From the bustling city of Lagos to the serene beaches of Calabar, Nigeria boasts a wide array of tourism attractions, including rich historical sites like the ancient Nok Terracotta, diverse wildlife, and festivals such as the globally acclaimed Osun-Osogbo Festival. However, Nigeria’s tourism industry faces challenges in infrastructure, marketing, and security, which events like the Nigeria-Benin Tourism Forum aim to address through international collaboration.
On the other hand, Benin Republic, a smaller but culturally rich country in West Africa, is famed for its historical significance, especially its role in the transatlantic slave trade. Sites such as the Ouidah Slave Route and the Royal Palaces of Abomey attract tourists interested in history and culture. Benin is also home to several wildlife parks, including the Pendjari National Park, one of the last strongholds of West Africa’s endangered species. With a more established eco-tourism sector, Benin serves as a model for sustainable tourism practices.
Enhancing Bilateral Tourism
The Nigeria-Benin Tourism Forum is part of a broader effort to enhance tourism cooperation between the two countries. By leveraging their individual strengths, both nations aim to create a more cohesive tourism ecosystem that benefits the entire region. Benin, with its eco-tourism success and cultural heritage, and Nigeria, with its expansive market and vibrant cultural scene, are well-positioned to complement each other in the tourism sector.
The forum not only discussed policy and investment opportunities but also focused on cultural exchange programs, capacity building, and sustainable tourism practices. It brought together key stakeholders, including government representatives, private sector players, and international tourism organizations.
The recognition of Nkereuwem Onung’s contributions to the tourism industry through the NIG-BEN Tourism Award reflects his leadership and the significant strides made by Nigeria’s tourism sector under his stewardship. As FTAN President, Onung has been a vocal advocate for improving Nigeria’s tourism infrastructure and creating more opportunities for tourism professionals across the continent.
Future Prospects
With promises of further collaboration, this forum marks the beginning of what could be a transformative period for tourism in both nations.
