By KELU MUSA

The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) has unveiled its Tourism Transformation Mandate (TTM), aimed at transforming Nigeria’s tourism sector.

It was unveiled on Monday in Abuja at a pre-event news conference on the upcoming 2026 Nigerian Tourism Investors Forum and Exhibition (NTIFE).

In his speech, Dr Aliyu Badaki, President of FTAN, described the TTM as a strategic roadmap designed to move the industry from dialogue to implementation.

According to him, Nigeria does not need more conversations about tourism.

“What it needs is coordinated implementation.

“NTIFE 2026 will serve as the implementation platform for the TTM through seven strategic pillars, including policy alignment, investment promotion, destination development and human capital development,” he said.

He noted NTIFE, established in 2013, has evolved into Nigeria’s leading private sector platform for tourism investment, policy engagement and business development.

The president explained that the initiative was designed to position tourism as a key driver of economic diversification, investment, job creation and cultural preservation.

He said delegates from over 12 countries, alongside governors, ministers and investors, were expected at the two-day event scheduled for July 30 and July 31.

Speaking on the controversial National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) Act, Badaki said FTAN was supporting the Act, but opposed provisions that could undermine tourism businesses.

“FTAN will not support an Act that will kill businesses or undermine members’ interests,” he said.

Also speaking, FTAN’s First Deputy President, Mrs Susan Akporiaye, described NTIFE as the association’s flagship investment platform for attracting local and international investors into Nigeria’s tourism sector.

According to her, the private sector is complementing government’s efforts by connecting prospective investors with tourism investment opportunities, adding that investment is open to both small and large-scale participants.

The news conference was attended by tourism stakeholders, including the General Secretary of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), Julie Tongrit; and FTAN FCT Vice Chairman, Aturu Samson.

Others were the Registrar of Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN), Dr Taiwo Famogbiyele; FTAN Executive Secretary, Precious Okonji; and FTAN Council member, Geraldine Itoe. (NAN)