By KELU MUSA

The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), has announced the postponement of the maiden edition of the Naija Flavour International Tourism Expo (NAFITOE), to 2027.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was earlier scheduled for Nov. 21 and Nov. 22, 2026.

This is contained in a statement made available to NAN on Tuesday, by the Director-General of NTDA, Dr Olayiwola Awakan.

Awakan explained that the postponement was occasioned by prevailing national political activities and scheduling challenges involving key participating dignitaries.

He also explained that the decision was taken to allow the participation of President Bola Tinubu, who was expected to flag off the national tourism expo.

He said the original dates coincided with intensified political and electoral activities which created competing commitments for the presidency, senior government officials and other invited dignitaries.

“Given the importance being attached to NAFITOE as a national tourism expo, the NTDA considers it essential that the event will be held when the president will graciously flag off the expo,” he said.

According to him, the postponement will provide additional time to strengthen the programme, deepen stakeholder engagement, expand international participation and mobilise greater private-sector support.

He said the new dates would also provide greater flexibility for national and international dignitaries to participate fully in the event.

The NTDA director general described NAFITOE as an annual platform designed to showcase Nigeria’s tourism destinations, cultural heritage, creative industries, investment opportunities and hospitality sector.

He said the expo was also expected to facilitate international tourism cooperation, business-to-business engagements, investment matchmaking and destination promotion.

He expressed appreciation to state governments, international partners, tourism stakeholders, private-sector organisations, exhibitors and sponsors for their support towards the maiden edition.

He assured stakeholders that new dates and further details on the programme and participation arrangements would be communicated in due course.

The authority expressed confidence that the extended planning period would enable it to deliver a bigger and more impactful maiden edition in 2027. (NAN)