Government & NANTA Partner to Promote Nigerian Tourism at WTM London
The Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John, has announced plans to mobilize the country’s support for the National Association of Travel Agencies (NANTA) at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, scheduled to take place in November.
The minister, visibly excited about NANTA’s commitment to promoting Nigeria’s cultural tourism values and offerings, emphasized the importance of supporting the association’s efforts to showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage to the world.
Speaking during a courtesy visit of the NANTA Executive led by its President, Mr. Yinka Folami, Mrs Ade-John noted that the government is working closely with the ministries of culture and tourism to approach all 36 state governments to join the advocacy campaign. “We are committed to supporting NANTA and look forward to being part of the WTM. The association has demonstrated its capacity and technical expertise in promoting Nigerian tourism, and we believe that together, we can achieve great things”.
The minister also announced that the government will unveil a new tourism policy by mid-September, which will provide direction for the private sector to create jobs and stimulate growth in the industry. She stressed the need for sanity and collaboration in the industry, urging practitioners to work together to achieve a common goal.
“We need to work together to create an atmosphere that is welcoming to both Nigerians and visitors. I believe in the power of domestic tourism and the potential of our cultural heritage to attract visitors from around the world”.
On the issue of visa requirements, the minister assured that the government is working to address the issue, which is a major concern for tourists and travelers.
NANTA President, Mr. Yinka Folami, expressed gratitude to the minister for her support and emphasized the association’s commitment to promoting Nigerian cultural tourism, adding that, NANTA has taken it upon itself to market and promote Nigeria at the WTM, committing significant resources and energy to the project.
“We believe in the Nigerian project and are committed to promoting our country’s rich cultural and historical diversities. We expect the government to support our efforts to bring Nigerian cultural tourism to the global market”.
