The Nigerian travel industry is set for a significant transformation with the launch of the very first Travelpreneur Conference and Expo (TRAVCONEXPO), a premier MICE event. This event aims to unite industry stakeholders, entrepreneurs and experts to shape the future of travel in Nigeria and beyond.

Dr. Oludayo Taiwo Gideon, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aeroport Group and Convener of the Travelpreneur Conference and Expo, announced the initiative during a press conference held at the Aeroport corporate office in Lagos. TRAVCONEXPO is organized by Travconex Projects Limited, a subsidiary of Aeroport.

According to Dr. Gideon, “the Group is poised to unveil Nigeria’s first dedicated travel trade fair and conference focused on capacity building and business growth for travel practitioners and professionals. This event is designed as a premier platform where travel entrepreneurs, industry experts and the general public can gather to network, learn and explore travel-related products and services.”

The event aims to integrate professional development with public engagement, fostering innovation and growth in the travel industry. Dr. Gideon confirmed that the inaugural TRAVCONEXPO will take place on September 19-20, 2025, at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. The theme for the event is “Innovating the Future of Travel: Empowering Entrepreneurs in a New Era.”

Dr. Gideon further explained that the conference will focus on the latest trends and innovations in the travel industry, including sustainable tourism, digital marketing and entrepreneurship. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from industry experts, share their experiences, and connect with like-minded individuals.

The MICE event will also feature the Travelpreneur Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to the travel and tourism sector.

Adding to Dr. Gideon’s commitment to transforming the travel landscape, Mr. Olaotokunbo Olagoke, Project Manager at TRAVCONEXPO, provided an overview of the event. He emphasized that Aeroport is timely in reinventing Nigeria’s travel landscape to align with global trends through TRAVCONEXPO.

He stated, “The theme focuses on the transformative power of innovation within the travel industry, especially in the wake of recent global challenges. It emphasizes the critical role of entrepreneurs in shaping the future of travel through creativity, adaptability, and sustainable practices. By addressing emerging technologies, evolving consumer behaviors and the importance of collaboration, the conference aims to equip attendees with the insights and tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.”

Mr. Akinkunmi Awotundun, the Project Director, noted that TRAVCONEXPO is not only a platform for networking but also a valuable opportunity for anyone looking to shape the future of travel in Nigeria and beyond. “With its comprehensive program and esteemed speakers, TRAVCONEXPO is set to be a game-changer for the travel industry in Nigeria.
“Our goal is to create a platform that brings together travel enthusiasts, industry professionals and stakeholders to explore new opportunities, share knowledge and network.”

The press conference was attended by Miss Serah Obute, Committee Member; Mr. Olaotokunbo Olagoke, Project Manager; Dr. Oludayo Taiwo Gideon, CEO/Convener; Mr. Akinkunmi Awotundun, Project Director; and Miss Rita Ogungbenro, Executive Assistant, all organizers of TRAVCONEXPO.