Category: Culture & Tourism

Abuja, Nigeria – 19 November 2025 — The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), marking a major step toward building a more data-driven and globally competitive hospitality, travel, and tourism industry in Nigeria.

The partnership aims to deepen sector research, strengthen tourism intelligence, and provide credible data to guide government agencies, investors, practitioners, and stakeholders in making informed decisions. For years, the industry’s growth has been hampered by fragmented and unreliable data, limiting its ability to fully harness opportunities in job creation, enterprise development, and cultural promotion.

Under the MoU, NIHOTOUR and NBS will collaborate on enhanced data collection and analysis across accommodation, transportation, culinary tourism, events, recreation, destination activities, and workforce trends. The two agencies will also produce joint research outputs to serve as official references for policymakers, development partners, and private-sector players. The agreement further includes capacity-building initiatives and the development of a shared tourism intelligence system to support planning, forecasting, and regulatory improvements.

“This partnership marks a turning point for the sector,” said Aare Fagade, DG/CEO of NIHOTOUR. “Reliable data is the backbone of meaningful progress. With this MoU, we are paving the way for smarter investments, better training, and a more globally competitive tourism industry.”

Statistician-General of the Federation and NBS CEO, Prince Adeyemi, said the bureau remains committed to supporting sectors with significant potential for national development. “This collaboration ensures that the hospitality, travel, and tourism sector will now benefit from the same level of statistical rigour applied to other critical industries,” he noted.

The collaboration comes ahead of the festive season, the busiest period for Nigeria’s tourism ecosystem. Through the partnership, NIHOTOUR and NBS will track visitor flows, spending patterns, workforce movements, and sectoral performance during the period, helping operators, destination managers, and state governments improve planning, pricing, and service delivery.

The MoU aligns with national efforts to reposition tourism as a major non-oil revenue source and strengthen professional standards across the hospitality and travel value chain. By combining NIHOTOUR’s leadership in capacity development with NBS’s expertise in statistical systems, the agreement lays a strong foundation for sustainable and inclusive growth in Nigeria’s tourism industry.

… as FTAN set to unveil awardees, Tourism Icons

Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) has unveiled the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, as the Chief Hostess, alongside other guests and panelists ahead of the eight edition of its Nigeria Tourism Investment Forum and Exhibition (NTIFE) 2025.

The Forum, which is scheduled to hold on November 28, 2025, at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, according to the Federation, will be hosted by the Tourism Minister while the Special Guests include ambassadors, heads of corporate bodies and the Director Generals of parastatals in the Tourism Ministry and other MDAs.

The list include; Director Generals of the Nigerian Tourism Development (NTDA), Olayiwola Awakan; National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Aare Abisoye Fagade; National Gallery of Arts (NGA), Ahmed Bashir Sodangi; National Commission for Museums and Monument (NCMM), Olugbile Holloway; and National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi.

Earlier, the Federation has announced ace journalist, public analyst and current affairs commentator, Mr Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, who is Head of Current Affairs, TVC News, Lagos, as the Keynote Speaker for the Forum, with the theme; National Tourism Investment and Global Partnership.
The panelists include; Mrs Lolo Ngozi Ngoka, Managing Director, Zigona Travel Advisory; Dr Tony Elumelu, former Director, Private Sector Department, ECOWAS Commission; Dr Victor Dare, Group Managing Director, Better ways Group; Prince Philip Orebiyi, General Manager, Kogi State Hotel Board; and Mr Victor Kayode, President, Nigeria Hotel and Catering Institute (NHCI).
FTAN while disclosing the list of the panelist noted; ‘‘we’re excited to share the lineup of respected industry leaders who will be driving the conversations at this year’s forum.
‘‘Each panelist brings a wealth of experience, fresh perspectives, and a strong commitment to advancing Nigeria’s tourism sector. Their insights will inspire meaningful dialogue and help shape practical pathways for investment, collaboration, and growth.
We look forward to a vibrant and impactful session with these outstanding professionals at NTIFE 2025.’’
The Forum will be preceded by Investiture and Award Night, with the awardees and Tourism Icons for the event to be made public in the coming days.
According to FTAN, the one-day Forum is expected to bring together state governments, investors, policymakers, tourism professionals, foreign envoys, and international partners to chart new pathways for Nigeria’s tourism growth and economic .

Onyishi Enugu Ezike coronates Philanthropist, Odumegwu, with Eagle Feather on Cap

The Onyishi of Enugu Ezike Ancient Kingdom, Agu Eze Nwaokpe,102 years, has coronated a renowned Philanthropist, Dr Ejikeme Odumegwu, with an Eagle Feather on his Red Cap in recognition for his philanthropy and care for the elderly.

Nwaokpe, a Centenarian and the oldest man in Enugu Ezike Ancient Kingdom, pronounced the coronation during the “Ikpu isi” (Traditional Hair Cut Ceremony) of the Onyishi of Enugu Ezike on Sunday.

Odumegwu, who is the Owelle of Nsukka, was accompanied to the ceremony by Chairman of Igboeze North LGA Traditional Rulers’ Council, Igwe Cyril Ayogu (Ogburu Ugbowu Jide Ofor) as well as a community youth leader Comrade Ayogu Agbo (the Great) and the executives of the Association of Enugu Ezike Herbalist Association under the Chairmanship of Chief Festus Eke ( Arusi Udoku).

Most prominent in attendance was the former Chairman and Grand Patron of Enugu State Traditional Rulers’ Council, Igwe Simeon Osisi-Itodo (Ezeoha 1 of Aji, Essodo): Former Executive Chairman of Igboeze North LGA, Nze Chidi Omeh; Chairman of Igboeze North (IGR), Comrade Fidelis Mama; Chief Ody Ogili and Hon Marthin Ayogu among other personalities.

Addressing the mammoth crowd at the ceremony, Nwaokpe urged youths to be law-abiding and stick to instructions handed to them by elders.

The centenarian noted that being law-abiding and sticking to instructions would foster lasting peace in the community, council area, state, and entire country.

He said, “There will be no meaningful and monumental development without enduring peace.”

According to him, I urge youths to work and earn decent wage/salary and follow life with an open mind devoid of hatred or working against any one’s positive and genuine progress.

“This earth is never ours. We come and go. Let us show love to one another in the few numbered days we are meant to live here on earth.

 “I pray and preach peace and love to everybody in the country, Enugu State and Enugu Ezike community even as we continue to live in harmony and be our brother’s keeper,” he said.

The centenarian also prayed and blessed Odumegwu, his entire household, and all the entourage that accompanied him to the visit.

 “As you have supported my welfare and continuously celebrated me while I am alive; things and developments of celebration will not cease from your life and God in His infinite grace will also give you longevity on earth,” he added.

Speaking, Igwe Cyril Ayogu, the Chairman of Igboeze North LGA Traditional Rulers’ Council, appreciated God for giving Onyishi of Enugu Ezike longevity as well as sound physical and mental health to complement it.

Ayogu, who is also the Traditional Ruler of Umuopu autonomous community in Enugu Ezike, also lauded Odumegwu for the homage and leading by positive example meant for every youth and indigene of Enugu Ezike to follow.

 “Everybody should follow the right path of life. Respect and honor instructions of the elders for both individual and collective good of all,” he said.

Responding, Odumegwu, who is also the Ndegbe 1 of Enugu Ezike, said that for some years running as part of his philanthropy gesture he had placed the Onyishi Enugu Ezike on a monthly allowance of N100,000 and other elders of the rest composite communities on N20,000 monthly allowance.

He said that the homage to Onyishi had been a routine one, adding: “One can achieve more in life with the prayers, blessings and guidance of the elders.

“Paying homage to our elders, old parents, and the needy to provide succor is a pilgrimage one must embark on to grow.

 “As Enugu Ezike people, we cherish and respect our rich cultural heritage as well as traditional and elders’ institutions, which ‘Onyishi Enugu Ezike Oba – Agu Eze Nwaokpe’ represents and symbolises.

 “I will advise all, especially the youths, to follow elders’  counsel for peace and progress to reign everywhere in the country,” he said.

Odumegwu recalled that the Great Zik of Africa and first President of Nigeria, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, in 1994 after observing his (Odumegwu) charisma and leadership prowess with a futuristic eye christened him “The Owelle of Nsukka”.

“While in 2019, all traditional rulers in Enugu Ezike imposed it on me that they must coronate me with a traditional title of my choice to appreciate  my values and I decided to answer Ndegbe 1 of Enugu Ezike (the oldest, strongest and cleansing masquerade of Enugu Ezike).

“Recently, I have become the first Enugu Ezike man with one Eagle feather on his Cap that is permitted into the sacred and prestigious Elders’ Council of Enugu Ezike meetings, which is the apex body to decide all issues of customs and tradition in the ancient kingdom,” he said.

High points of the ceremony were a 50 traditional canon gunshots and presentation of gift items to the Onyishi Enugu Ezike, which included: a giant ram, scores of tubers of yam, a giant white fowl and calabash of kola-nuts among others.

Enugu Ezike ancient kingdom is made up of four major communities, which included: Ezeodo, Essodo, Itodo, and Ozzi.

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) will as part of the 2025 edition of the Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Nigeria Digital Content Regulatory Conference host a special honour initiative celebrating 22 distinguished Nollywood stars and legends who clocked the milestone ages of 50 and 60 in 2025. The conference holds on the 18 and 19 November 2025 at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.
Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the NFVCB, Dr. Shaibu Husseini hinted that the celebration aims to recognize outstanding practitioners whose careers have significantly shaped the Nigerian film industry. According to Dr. Husseini, the initiative reflects the Boards commitment to acknowledging the creative professionals whose work has enriched national culture, elevated Nollywoods global profile, and contributed to the industrys rapid growth. Nollywoods strength lies in the people who give life to its stories, he said. Honouring those who have invested decades of excellence in the industry is both a responsibility and a privilege.
For the maiden edition, the NFVCB deliberately selected 22 practitioners who reached these milestone ages within the year, ensuring the celebration remains focused, personal, and meaningful. The honourees include Rita Dominic, Ngozi Ezeonu, Segun Aina Padonu, Desmond Olusola Elliot, Atoyota Akpobeme aka Ali Baba, Ahmed Sarari, Afeez Bello, Adebayo Tijani, Achibi Sam Dede, Liliam Amah, Eucharia Anunobi, Taiwo Adeleye, Seyi Siwoku, Jude Chukwuka, Kingsley Ogoro and former President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) Sir Bond Emeruwa. The ED said that the honourees represent a broad cross-section of Nollywoods most influential actors, filmmakers, and creative contributorsindividuals whose artistry, resilience, and career trajectories continue to inspire audiences and emerging talents.
Dr. Husseini also noted that this tribute signals the beginning of a sustained culture of institutional recognition for Nollywood practitioners. We are starting with this select group, but this is only the first step. From next year, the honour roll will expand to include industry veterans turning 70 and abovethose whose pioneering efforts created the foundations on which todays Nollywood stands.
This years edition of the conference will be held under the theme: “From Volume to Value: The Future of Nollywood in the Digital Age. The keynote speech will be delivered by the queen of the stage and screen Bolanle Austen-Peters.

FTAN names Otitoju of TVC News as keynote speaker for 8th NTIFE 2025

Ahead of its Nigeria Tourism Investors Forum and Exhibition (NTIFE) 2025, the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), has named Mr Babajide Kolade Otitoju, Head of Current Affairs,

TVC News, Lagos, as the Keynote Speaker for the 8th edition of event.

Other speakers confirmed for the one-day forum include:

Lolo Ngozi Ngoka, Managing Consultant, Zigona Advisory,

Thematic Lead, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Group, Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG); Mr Victor Kayode, President, Nigerian Hotel and Catering Institute

(NHCI); and Prince Philip, General Manager, Kogi State Hotels Board.

NTIFE is slated for Friday, November 28, 2025 at Army Headquarters (AHQ) Command Event Hall, Near Command Guest House, Asokoro, Abuja. Forum and Exhibition opens by 10:00am.

The forum, with the theme; National Tourism Investment and Global Partnership, is expected to bring together state governments, investors, policymakers, tourism professionals, and international partners to chart new pathways for Nigeria’s tourism growth and economic diversification.
The programmes for the event will also include the Investiture of the new FTAN’s President, Dr Aliyu Badaki; the Nigeria Tourism Icon Awards; exhibitions; and networking opportunities that celebrate innovation, culture, and collaboration in the tourism space.
FTAN is working to strengthen partnerships and build momentum for a more vibrant and globally competitive tourism industry by investing in Nigeria’s tourism future with NTIFE 2025.

The Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) has announced plans to showcase Nigeria’s diverse cultural tourism attractions at the Africa Market Place, a global tourism and trade exhibition scheduled to hold in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from November 12 to 15, 2025.
In collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, NATOP will curate a dynamic presentation featuring Nigeria’s music, fashion, destinations, and cultural heritage, aimed at positioning the country as a leading tourism destination in Africa.
According to the organisers, the initiative seeks to attract global tourism investors and enthusiasts while addressing lingering perceptions and safety concerns about travel to Nigeria.
Lagos State, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has continued to champion international tourism promotion through sustained investment in infrastructure, destination marketing, and cultural events. The state is leveraging the Dubai exhibition, in partnership with NATOP, to reinforce its reputation as Nigeria’s foremost cultural tourism hub.
The collaboration will also spotlight Lagos State’s Tourism Master Plan, ongoing investment opportunities, and the government’s stakeholder partnerships geared towards sustainable tourism development.
The Africa Market Place, curated by the Ibukun Awosika Leadership Academy, is expected to feature more than 250,000 African and Caribbean products across sectors such as fashion, food, technology, culture, and beauty — providing participants global visibility and access to international markets.
Speaking ahead of the event, NATOP President, Bolaji Mustapha, said Nigeria’s participation goes beyond promotion, describing it as a strategic move to restore global confidence in Nigeria’s tourism landscape.
“Perception is key to global tourism marketing. NATOP is committed to projecting Nigeria’s true image and showcasing the immense potential of our destinations to the world. We appreciate the Lagos State Government for trusting NATOP to market its cultural and tourism opportunities in Dubai,” Mustapha said.

Picture’s Caption (From left : Professor Taoheed Adedoja, the Balogun Agba Oye of Ibadan land, and OBA Amidu Ajibade,  Asipa Of Ibadan Land)

Abuja — Nigeria has taken a bold step in cultural diplomacy and culinary innovation as the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), in partnership with Novarosta, unveiled Oríkì — an immersive cultural and culinary showcase designed to celebrate African excellence and promote Nigeria as a global tourism destination.

The historic event, that will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Eagle’s Square, Abuja, will bring together government officials, international partners, investors, chefs, creatives, and cultural ambassadors from across Africa and the diaspora under the theme: “When Culture Meets Cuisine, the World Connects.”

A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation

Inspired by the art of African praise poetry, Oríkì paid homage to the rich cultural diversity of Nigeria through poetry, music, dance, and haute cuisine.
Guests will be treated to a sensory journey featuring regional food pavilions, contemporary reinterpretations of local dishes, and live performances showcasing Yoruba Oríkì, Igbo Aha Otuto, Hausa Kirari, and Itsekiri Eré.

Minister Musawa: “Food is Our Bridge to the World”

The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, who lauded NIHOTOUR’s efforts, described Oríkì as a catalyst for unity and global recognition.
“Culinary art has the power to unite us beyond borders. Through food and culture, we discover our shared humanity. Oríkì is a profound expression of who we are as Africans — proud, creative, and united by heritage,” she said.

She reaffirmed the federal government’s support under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to develop culture, tourism, and the creative economy as engines of national growth.

A New Pathway for Tourism and Investment

Director-General of NIHOTOUR, Dr. Abisoye Fagade, described the initiative as a turning point for Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sector.
“Through Oríkì, we are transforming Nigeria’s living traditions into global experiences — connecting art, culture, and cuisine to drive prosperity and pride. This is how we make hospitality a national export,” he said.
The event also launched the Cultural Gastronomy Investment Series, a new platform designed to attract investors and international partners into Nigeria’s culinary and creative economy.

Boosting Nigeria’s Global Image

Oríkì aligns with NIHOTOUR’s Mission 100 Vision, aimed at building Africa’s most dynamic tourism workforce while promoting heritage, creativity, and innovation.
Novarosta, co-organisers of the event, emphasized the global significance of the project, stating, “Culture is the heartbeat of hospitality, and hospitality is the face of Nigeria. Oríkì reflects how both can unite a nation and inspire the world.”