The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria FTAN) has called for greater participation of Nigeria in international tourism fairs to help grow tourism business in the country and create greater visibility for the country’s tourism assets. FTAN made the call through its President Mr. Nkereuwem Onung.

In an interview with some travel journalists, Onung lamented the absence of Nigeria at the recently concluded FITUR travel fair this January in Madrid, Spain where about 25 African countries participated to sell their countries. He said: “Nigeria’s absence from FITUR Madrid 2025 was deeply concerning. As the so-called Giant of Africa, our absence not only undermines our status but also denies us the opportunity to position our tourism products on the global stage. It highlights a pattern of neglect that must be addressed if we are serious about developing our tourism sector.”

The FTAN president said the lack of participation in such international exhibitions and fairs in the past had been due to the country not having a tourism ministry, but expected this to change since there is a tourism ministry now. He said: “Over the years, this has been attributed to the lack of an independent ministry focused solely on tourism. Now that we finally have a Ministry of Tourism, there’s no longer an excuse. However, the underlying issue is a misconception about the value of international exhibitions. Past administrations have labeled them as a waste of public funds. This perspective stems from a lack of strategy and the inability to make these platforms work.”

Onung said the best way Nigeria can fully participate and market the country was to allow the private sector to take the lead: “We are the highest contributors to the tourism sector and the direct beneficiaries of international marketing strategies. We understand how to create impact even with limited resources. Nigeria’s tourism stakeholders are ready and willing to take charge of our global representation, but this requires collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism.

“At FITUR Madrid, countries like Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, and even smaller nations like Cameroon showcased their unique tourism offerings under a unified African banner. This level of collaboration and visibility is critical in positioning a country as a top destination. Meanwhile, Nigeria, a country rich in culture, history, and natural attractions was nowhere to be seen. This absence is particularly ironic when “Detty December,” a global sensation originating from Nigeria, is attracting international tourists.”

Onung said the federation plans having a meeting with the tourism minister, the international office in charge of exhibitions, and private sector stakeholders to clarify financial constraints, and if funding was the issue, to develop a funding model. He said the private sector can work with the ministry to raise the necessary funds for these events.

He said the private sector would work with the tourism ministry to create a unified roadmap, “We need a strategic plan for Nigeria’s participation in key international exhibitions, ensuring that we take our rightful place on the global stage. We’ve seen how tourism initiatives driven by private organizations have succeeded in attracting visitors and boosting local economies. With the right partnership and support from the government, we can achieve much more.

“My vision is for Nigeria to reclaim its place as a leading tourism destination in Africa. We must be present and dominant at global exhibitions. I also envision a public-private partnership model where the government facilitates and the private sector executes, ensuring sustainability and growth. Tourism is not a frivolous expenditure; it is an investment in our future. We have the resources, talent, and culture to become a global tourism powerhouse. But this can only happen if we work together public and private sectors united to showcase Nigeria to the world.

“It’s time for us to act and ensure Nigeria is no longer missing from the global tourism map.