The Organizers of the African Hospitality and Tourism Education Summit (AHTES) has announced the appointment of Susan Akporiaye, Managing Director and CEO of Topaz Travels and Tours Ltd and Former President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), as the African Regional Head for the African Hospitality and Tourism Education Summit (AHTES).
This was disclosed in a release signed by Chimezie Mike Onyeneke, Convener & Project Director, African Hospitality and Tourism Education Summit (AHTES) and copy made available to Travelscope Magazine.
Chimezie stated that Susan Akporiaye’s exceptional contributions to the travel and tourism industry, particularly during her impactful tenure as NANTA President, have significantly enhanced global connections for Nigerian travel agencies.
“Her leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to education have set new benchmarks within the industry, making this appointment both fitting and well-deserved”, Chimezie added.
In her new role as the African Regional Head, Susan’s vast experience and extensive network is expected to be instrumental in advancing the AHTES 2025 project.
Chimezie Mike Onyeneke, Convener & Project Director, African Hospitality and Tourism Education Summit (AHTES)
Chimezie stated further that her leadership is expected to foster greater collaboration among African and global scholars, educators, hoteliers, travel professionals, and students, ultimately contributing to the growth of the Hospitality and Tourism Industry through education and career awareness.
Susan Akporiaye is a seasoned travel consultant and visionary leader with a distinguished track record in pioneering initiatives and driving growth within the African travel and tourism industry.
With a career spanning decades, her innovative approach and deep understanding of industry dynamics have propelled her to spearhead initiatives that promote professionalism, enhance industry standards, and foster collaboration both within Africa and beyond.
Her commitment to youth development, leadership, and embracing innovation and technology underscores her dedication to shaping the future of the industry.
Susan holds a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from UNICAF University, Zambia (2023), and a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology from the University of Calabar, Nigeria (2002).
She began her academic journey at Opebi Grammar School and Baptist Primary School in Lagos, where she obtained her secondary and primary school certificates, respectively.
Since 2004, Susan has served as Chief Executive at Topaz Travels and Tours Limited, Abuja, where she has demonstrated a strong commitment to result-oriented responsibilities, value addition, exceptional service delivery, team-based success, exemplary leadership, and strategic vision.
Prior to this role, she was a Travel Consultant at Luxury Travels and Tours, Abuja, from 2003 to 2004.
Susan’s multifaceted leadership is evident through her notable roles within industry associations.
She has served as the National President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) since 2020, demonstrating a profound commitment to advancing the travel industry’s interests.
In addition to her role in NANTA, she holds the position of 2nd Deputy President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), further highlighting her dedication to fostering collaboration and growth within the sector.
As a Board Member of the African Travel Commission, Susan contributes her expertise to shaping strategic initiatives on a continental scale.
Susan’s contributions to the travel and tourism landscape have been recognized through numerous awards and accolades across the travel, tourism, hospitality, and cultural sectors.
She has been honored with special recognition for her outstanding contributions, innovation, and exceptional leadership.
Susan has made innovative contributions to the African travel and tourism sector, including her role in the Single African Air Transport Market Pilot Implementation Project Committee in 2023, which significantly influenced policies aimed at enhancing air travel connectivity across the continent.
Her mentorship of three Nigerian youths, who emerged as top finalists in the Africa Youth Tourism Innovation Summit and Challenge, underscores her commitment to nurturing talent.
In 2023, Susan organized the inaugural International Travel and Tourism Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa, showcasing her leadership in promoting dialogue and collaboration within the industry.
She also pioneered Nigerian Tourism Private Sector Exhibits at the World Travel Market in London in 2022 and 2023, highlighting Nigeria’s tourism potential on a global platform.
Susan has led several pivotal initiatives shaping the trajectory of the travel and tourism industry in Africa.
As Chairperson of the FTAN Committee to Study/Review the 2023 Tourism Laws, she played a crucial role in assessing the legal framework for effective tourism in Nigeria.
Additionally, her leadership of the NANTA Constitution Review Committee led to the successful restructuring of the association’s governing framework.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Susan is actively engaged in social and community activities.
She is a member of the Tourism 100 Club and SKAL International, reflecting her commitment to fostering relationships and networking within the industry.
In her leisure time, Susan enjoys traveling, teaching, meeting new people, and engaging in adventurous pursuits.
