NTDA & Ladies in Hospitality Chart a New Course for Nigeria’s Tourism Industry
In a significant move underscoring the growing synergy within Nigeria’s tourism ecosystem, the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) recently hosted a high-level delegation from Ladies in Hospitality & Tourism (LIHT) at its Abuja headquarters. Led by convener Oyelade Florence Adedayo-Tayo, the visit transcended formal protocol, evolving into a strategic dialogue defined by shared vision and collective ambition for the industry’s future.
From the outset, the atmosphere was one of mutual respect and common purpose. The delegation expressed deep appreciation to the NTDA Director General for his sustained support of the sector, specifically acknowledging his role in advancing initiatives that promote inclusivity and growth. They praised the renewed energy currently pulsating through the industry, signaling that Nigerian tourism is regaining momentum and repositioning itself for greater global impact.
Beyond pleasantries, the meeting sparked substantive conversations on collaboration. The delegation reaffirmed its readiness to partner with the NTDA on sector-wide initiatives designed to strengthen institutional frameworks and elevate the role of women in hospitality. In a sector where women are pivotal to service delivery, management, and entrepreneurship, such alliances are increasingly vital.
Samuel Itodo, Group General Manager of Hotel 2020 and Apartments, added depth to the discussion by commending the NTDA leadership’s proactive engagement style. He stressed the necessity of sustaining these interactions through structured follow-ups and long-term partnerships that translate ideas into tangible outcomes.
The dialogue took a continental turn when Uloma Danjumbo, Sales Manager at AATC ONOMO, highlighted upcoming Africa-focused engagements aimed at fostering collaboration among culinary and tourism professionals. She noted that, under the auspices of the Afreximbank Africa Trade Centre, these initiatives are designed to showcase Africa’s rich cultural diversity while strengthening cross-border partnerships within the hospitality industry.
In response, the NTDA Director General expressed sincere gratitude for the visit and reiterated the Authority’s commitment to driving sustainable growth. Speaking passionately about the critical role of women in nation-building, he described the hospitality industry as a powerful vehicle for empowerment, job creation, and socio-economic development.
He further emphasized the NTDA’s openness to mutually beneficial collaborations and its readiness to actively participate in key continental events, including HMC Africa 2026. His remarks reflected a forward-looking approach that recognizes partnerships as the key to unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector.
The visit concluded on a celebratory note with the presentation of a Certificate of Recognition to the Director General by the LIHT group. The award honored his contributions during International Women’s Day commemoration events and his broader efforts to advance tourism and hospitality in Nigeria.
As the industry evolves, engagements like this serve as a vital reminder that sustainable growth is driven not just by policy, but by people—the conversations they hold, the partnerships they build, and the shared visions they pursue. The meeting between the NTDA and Ladies in Hospitality & Tourism marks a promising step toward a more inclusive and dynamic future for Nigeria’s tourism landscape.
