The President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria, FTAN, and Chairman Board of Trustees (BOT) of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators, NATOP, Mr Nkereuwem Onung, has stated that as Chairman of NATOP’s Board of Trustees, he is proud of the progress they have made in promoting and marketing Nigeria as a destination despite harsh economic realities.

Speaking at the 2024 Annual General Meeting, AGM, in Ilorin, Kwara State, Onung commend the outgone President of NATOP , Mrs Ime Udo and her team, especially the chairperson of the AGM committee, Alhaja Bolaji Mustapha for putting together a great event.

He said NATOP will continue to work tirelessly to create an enabling environment for their members to thrive.

Onung while stating that this AGM is an elective one, urged members to elect leaders who will accommodate the aspirations of the young tour operators , women in tourism and set new goals.

He enjoined the members to remember the power of unity, collaboration, and innovation and work together to promote sustainable tourism practices, enhance the quality of their services, and showcase the beauty and diversity of the nation.

FTAN President said: “May this conference inspire us to strive for excellence, and may our industry continue to thrive!
Tour operators, you know what to do- let us give back to the state by marketing the assets and culture of Kwara state”.

In her welcome address, the former President of
Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Mrs Ime Udoh stated
Tourism is a significant contributor to economic development, cultural exchange, and international understanding.

Mrs Udoh noted that tourism possesses the potential to unite nations and communities, foster global citizenship, and promote peace and prosperity.

The outgone NATOP President stated that the gathering provides a platform for them to deliberate on the pivotal role of tourism as a catalyst for progress, peace, and partnership.

According to her: ” As a driver and stimulator of tourism development, NATOP utilizes this AGM to identify, explore, and promote destinations, while engaging policymakers in areas of synergy, collaboration, infrastructure development, and best practices within the tourism industry”.

While expressing gratitude for the partnership with Kwara State Government to host their annual conference, she also commended Governor Abdulrahman abdulrasaq for his visionary leadership and proactiveness on matters of tourism.

She said this is evident by the enormous support NATOP has received towards the planning of the AGM and conference.

Udoh stated that their approach has achieved tremendous success, stimulating awareness and growth in the states where they have held their AGM.

She expressed excitement that the AGM also allows tour operators gain firsthand experience of these destinations, enabling them to curate tour packages to these places.

She said tourism is a significant contributor to economic development, cultural exchange, and international understanding. It possesses the potential to unite nations and communities, foster global citizenship, and promote peace and prosperity.

“Today we shall engage in meaningful deliberations, share best practices, and learn from each other’s experiences. We shall hear from eminent experts, policymakers, and practitioners who are shaping the future of tourism, Udoh stated.

She urged the members to use the opportunity to come together, learn, inspire each other, and shape a brighter future for tourism, progress, peace, and partnership.