Nigerian Tourism Chief Calls for Collaboration and Storytelling to Boost Sector

The Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Ola Awakan, has urged for stronger teamwork among those involved in tourism, hospitality, and travel. He made this statement during the 2026 Annual Conference and Awards of the Association of Nigerian Journalists and Writers of Tourism (ANJET) in Lagos.

Awakan believes that beyond legal changes, the tourism sector needs a united national plan. He pointed out that Nigeria should be seen as a whole, not just by its individual states. He stated that the country has plenty of tourism opportunities but needs to actively promote them for growth.

He praised ANJET for its ongoing efforts in tourism journalism and highlighted the media’s vital role in developing tourism. According to him, responsible journalism can help shape how people view Nigeria, attract investments, and promote the country’s cultural heritage.

Awakan called on tourism journalists to focus on solution-driven reporting and to showcase Nigeria’s diverse attractions, including local foods, festivals, and creative industries. He believes that this approach can boost domestic tourism and create jobs.

He also mentioned that the NTDA is working on a streaming platform dedicated to tourism, aimed at sharing stories about Nigeria’s rich culture and destinations. Awakan emphasized that storytelling is crucial for changing negative perceptions about Nigeria and showcasing its true identity.

In conclusion, he encouraged everyone to work together in telling Nigeria’s tourism story with pride and creativity, as this can lead to new opportunities and growth in the sector.