A delegation of the African Travel Commission (ATC) paid a courtesy visit to Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John on Tuesday, May 28, 2024.
The visit aimed to familiarise the minister with the ATC’s history, activities, and its pivotal role in the tourism sector since its establishment in 1965.
The ATC delegation was led by Lucky Onoriode George, the Executive Director, and Professor Wasiu Babalola, a trustee and board member.
This visit followed a serendipitous first encounter between the minister and the ATC delegation during a joint appearance on “Good Morning Nigeria,” a popular breakfast program on Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).
On the show, ATC representatives discussed the state of tourism in Nigeria as part of the one-year anniversary of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s administration.
During the courtesy visit, the ATC representatives provided an in-depth overview of the commission’s rich history and significant contributions to tourism across Africa.
Since its inception in 1965, the ATC has been instrumental in promoting tourism, fostering cross-continental partnerships, and driving sustainable tourism development.
Lucky Onoriode George highlighted the ATC’s key initiatives and projects that have positively impacted the tourism industry.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration between African nations to enhance tourism infrastructure, marketing, and cultural exchange.
Professor Wasiu Babalola, with his extensive expertise, reinforced the need for robust academic and professional partnerships to support tourism education and research.
Minister Lola Ade-John expressed her appreciation for the visit and the insightful presentation on the ATC’s role and achievements.
She acknowledged the importance of a unified approach to tourism development and the benefits of leveraging ATC’s extensive network and resources.
Minister Ade-John pledged her commitment to work closely with the ATC to enhance tourism development and promotion in Nigeria and across the continent.
She emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to tap into the vast potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector, attract international visitors, and create sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.