The National President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Hajia Bolaji Mustapha, has called for stronger tourism institutions to showcase Nigeria’s tourism assets and market the country as a destination. Mustapha said this while speaking at the 10^th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the association.

Speaking on the theme for the year’s AGM: “Unlocking Nigeria’s Tourism Potential: Strengthening Tour Operators for Sustainable Destination Development,” she said Nigeria is blessed with extraordinary natural attractions, vibrant cultures, rich history, and diverse experiences that have the power to position our country among the world’s leading tourism destinations. She, however, argued that unlocking these potentials require more than showcasing our assets, that it demands stronger institutions, empowered tour operators, strategic partnerships, innovation, and a collective commitment to sustainable destination development.

She commended members of the association for sacrificing to build a strong NATOP. She said: “As we gather once again, we celebrate not only the growth of our association but also the resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment of every stakeholder dedicated to advancing tourism in Nigeria. Your presence here today reflects our shared belief in the immense opportunities that lie within our nation’s tourism sector.”

The NATOP President also harped on the responsibility of tour operators in nation building. She said: “We are more than service providers; we are storytellers, destination ambassadors, and drivers of economic growth. Every itinerary we design, every destination we promote, and every visitor we welcome contributes to job creation, community development, cultural preservation, and national prosperity. Strengthening our capacity as professionals is therefore essential to building destinations that remain competitive, inclusive, and sustainable for generations to come.

“Over the course of this conference, I encourage us all to engage meaningfully, exchange ideas openly, and explore practical solutions that will strengthen our industry. Let this gathering inspire new collaborations, encourage innovation, and reinforce our commitment to delivering exceptional tourism experiences while preserving the unique heritage and environment that make Nigeria truly remarkable.”

Speaking on the AGM, the Board of Trustees (BoT) chairman of NATOP and immediate past President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) Mr. Nkereuwem Onung commended the current leadership of the association headed by Hajia Bolaji Mustapha for its remarkable achievements in the last two years. He said: “Under her leadership, we have witnessed unprecedented progress and peace within the association – a feat that cannot be overstated. This administration has achieved what many thought impossible. We have rebranded NATOP, giving the association a fresh and modern identity that reflects our ambition and professionalism. We have commissioned a new standard website that positions our members and the association on the global stage. The launch of the passport booklet is another milestone that strengthens our identity and provides value to our members.

“In our collective effort to curb quackery and sanitize the tour operations industry, this administration has introduced a Unified Identity Card Scheme for genuine tour operators – a critical tool in restoring confidence in our sector.”

In his speech at the occasion, the Chairman of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema has called for public-private sector partnership to promote tourism in Nigeria. He tasked NATOP to be the drivers of public-private sector partnership, saying tourism is one area that is yet untapped in the country.

Air Peace boss urged the NATOP members, ” to get involved in national heritage agencies. Let us be involved in this one area that is yet untapped. Instead of am Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa and this, let’s use our diversity for good. We can explore and make something better out of it”.

Among other activities at the NATOP AGM was the launching of the association’s newly designed website and the ‘NATOP Tourism Passport,’ a booklet that captures tourist attractions in Nigeria and a list of authentic tour operators in the country.