Abuja, Nigeria – August 14, 2024 – The Federal Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation of the Organization of the Islamic Cooperation (COMCEC), has launched a crucial three-day training program titled “Enhancing Capacities of Tourism Stakeholders for Adapting to Customers’ Changing Needs.” This event, running from August 13th to 15th, 2024, at the Valencia Hotel in Abuja, aims to bolster the tourism sector’s resilience and adaptability.
International participants include representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Uganda, as well as delegations from Mali and The Gambia. The Nigerian delegation represents a wide range of tourism organizations and associations, including the following:
- Association of Professional Chefs Nigeria (APCN)
- Youth Tourism Development Organisation (YTDO)
- SarahJohn Nigeria Limited
- ALLSTATES Travel and Tours Ltd
- Peaceful Sky Travel & Tours Ltd (NATOP)
- Nova Rosa Travels
- Owende Catering School (HATMAN)
- Hotel Owners Forum Abuja (HOFA)
- Nigeria Hotels Association (NHA)
- Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN)
- Motley Travels and Logistics Ltd
- Association of Nigerian Journalists and Editors for Tourism (ANJET)
- Institute for Tourism Professionals (ITPN)
- Tourism Volunteers Network
- African Weaving Festival
Dr. Emmanuel Okereke, COMCEC Project Coordinator, delivered a compelling keynote address during the opening ceremony. Dr. Okereke highlighted the pivotal role of tourism in fostering economic development and cultural exchange among nations. He praised the Federal Ministry of Tourism for its visionary approach in addressing current industry challenges and advancing regional cooperation. Emphasizing the need for continuous adaptation to customer demands and technological advancements, Dr. Okereke commended the Ministry’s efforts to align with the President’s Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritizes economic growth through innovative and inclusive strategies.
Representing the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Ibiene Roberts, OON, extended a warm welcome to the international delegates. Mrs. Roberts expressed profound appreciation for the participants’ commitment to enhancing their skills and knowledge. She encouraged the foreign delegates to immerse themselves in Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and exceptional hospitality, noting that such experiences would strengthen cross-cultural understanding and partnerships. In her speech, Mrs. Roberts emphasized that collaboration and knowledge sharing are key components of the training program. She articulated that these values are central to the Honourable Minister’s vision and align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which focuses on fostering meaningful international relationships and driving sustainable growth in Nigeria’s tourism sector.
Director of International Tourism Relations and Cooperation, Mrs. Dorothy Duruaku, reinforced the Ministry’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s tourism industry on the global stage. She emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to building robust international partnerships and supporting stakeholders in adapting to evolving market trends. Mrs. Duruaku highlighted the significance of this training program in equipping participants with the tools and insights needed to thrive in a dynamic tourism landscape. Reflecting on the Ministry’s alignment with President Tinubu’s agenda, she reiterated the focus on innovation, collaboration, and capacity building as essential elements for elevating Nigeria’s tourism sector and contributing to its economic development.
The Federal Ministry of Tourism, alongside COMCEC and the participating organizations, is dedicated to strengthening tourism stakeholder capacities and promoting Nigeria’s global tourism profile.
Signed:
Chindaya Ahmadu
Director of Press, Federal Ministry of Tourism
