States like Lagos, the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), West African Tourism Association (WATO), Wakanow and others will be part of Nigeria’s stand at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2024. The Nigerian Minister of Tourism Mrs. Lola Ade-John will lead the country’s delegation to this year’s WTM holding at Custom House, ExCel, London. This position was arrived at after a meeting between the Tourism Minister, the Nigerian Tourism Development Agency (NTDA), and organized private sector represented by the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN). Also present at the meeting were the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA). Also present at the meeting were the of Tour Operators (NATOP), represented by President Hajia Bolaji Mustapha. Also present was Mrs. Ola Wright of the West Africa Tourism Organisation.

In remarks, the minister expressed gratitude to NANTA for representing Nigeria at the past two editions of WTM but emphasised that the Ministry lead for the 2024 event. She highlighted the importance of presenting a unified delegation, ensuring Nigeria’s visibility and impact on the global stage.

“I am grateful to NANTA for their past efforts, but it is crucial that we consolidate our resources and expertise as a nation to showcase Nigeria’s tourism potential effectively,” said the Minister.

FTAN President Nkereuwem Onung, praised the minister’s initiative and assured stakeholders that NANTA would align its independent plans with the Ministry’s broader strategy. He emphasized that this collective effort would bolster Nigeria’s presence at the WTM.

The 2024 World Travel Market, one of the largest tourism exhibitions globally, presents a prime opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its diverse attractions, foster new partnerships, and attract foreign investment in the tourism sector. The unified approach is expected to heighten Nigeria’s profile and drive interest in the country’s rich cultural and natural assets.

The event is seen as a critical step toward boosting Nigeria’s tourism industry, which has been identified as a key driver for economic growth and diversification.