Nigeria Gears Up for Strategic, Unified Return to World Travel Market London Under Tourism Minister, Lola Ade John
Abuja–
After more than ten years of absence, Nigeria is set to make a strategic and unified comeback to the 2024 World Travel Market (WTM) in London. On Wednesday, the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade John held a crucial meeting with top tourism stakeholders to finalize plans for the country’s coordinated participation in the global event, scheduled to take place in November
The World Travel Market is one of the largest and most influential tourism expos, attracting industry professionals, travel agencies, tour operators, and government representatives from across the globe. It offers participants a platform to showcase their destinations, establish partnerships, and explore emerging trends. Nigeria’s return signals renewed efforts to reposition the nation as a competitive player in international tourism and attract more investments to the sector.
The meeting gathered key representatives from various tourism bodies, underscoring the collaborative approach being adopted for the event. Attendees included Mr. Friday Anumba, representing the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA); Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN); Mr. Yinka Folami, President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA); Hajia Bolaji Mustapha, President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP); and Mrs. Ola Wright from the West Africa Tourism Organisation.
The Nigeria tourism top actors flanked Hon. Lola Ade John, Minister of Tourism (middle) after the stakeholders meeting on Nigeria’s return to WTM London recently in Abuja, convened by Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, President, Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) next to Hon. Minister on the right side
In her remarks, the Honourable Minister expressed her appreciation to NANTA for representing Nigeria at the past two WTM editions despite the absence of official government involvement. She emphasized that the Ministry’s leadership in the 2024 edition aims to provide a unified and strategic representation of the country. “We are committed to presenting Nigeria’s tourism sector with one voice and a clear vision,” the Minister stated. “This participation will not only highlight our potential but also rebuild confidence in Nigeria as a preferred travel destination.”
The Minister also thanked FTAN President Nkereuwem Onung for facilitating the gathering, praising his efforts to align tourism stakeholders toward a shared objective. Onung acknowledged that NANTA had initially intended to participate independently but assured the group that the association is now on board with the Ministry’s coordinated plan. He confirmed NANTA’s willingness to share its strategies to develop a seamless approach for Nigeria’s representation at WTM 2024.
This collaboration reflects a significant shift toward a more organized and impactful engagement in global tourism events. The joint effort between the Ministry and private tourism associations aims to boost Nigeria’s visibility, foster international partnerships, and reposition the country as a vibrant tourism destination.
The 2024 WTM will serve as a vital platform for Nigeria to reconnect with the global tourism community, explore emerging market trends, and showcase the richness of its cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and tourism potential. This renewed engagement is expected to enhance the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s economy, fostering growth, investments, and job creation.
With the Ministry at the forefront, stakeholders are optimistic that the 2024 World Travel Market will mark the beginning of a new era for Nigerian tourism on the international stage.
