Flowerbud News

Category: Culture & Tourism

  • FTAN South East VP Calls for Sustainable Transformation of Tourism on World Tourism Day

    FTAN South East VP Calls for Sustainable Transformation of Tourism on World Tourism Day

    As the world marked World Tourism Day 2025 on Saturday under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” the Vice President, South East of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Ugwu Wilson Uche, has called for renewed commitment to repositioning tourism as a driver of economic growth and cultural preservation in Nigeria.

    In a press statement, Uche noted that tourism should no longer be viewed merely as leisure but as a catalyst for development, cultural preservation, and societal renewal. He emphasized that the global theme aligns with FTAN’s Tourism Transformation Mandate, championed by the association’s President, Dr. Aliyu Badaki, which advocates inclusiveness, innovation, and sustainability across the sector.

    “For us in Nigeria, and particularly in the South East, the call to sustainable transformation is both urgent and timely. Alaigbo is blessed with rich culture, diverse heritage, and natural endowments, but its greatest asset remains its resilient and hospitable people,” Uche said.

    He outlined his vision to reposition tourism in the South East to global standards, aiming to make the region a thriving hub for visitors. According to him, sustainable practices in tourism can unlock opportunities for job creation, youth empowerment, investment attraction, and regional branding while safeguarding cultural values and the environment.

    The FTAN South East Vice President stressed the importance of collaboration among government, the private sector, and host communities in achieving this vision. He highlighted the need for infrastructure development, forward-looking policies, and equitable sharing of tourism benefits at the grassroots level.

    “As the world reflects on this year’s theme, we must embrace the mandate to transform tourism into a pathway of prosperity, sustainability, and resilience—for Alaigbo, for Nigeria, and for Africa,” he added.

  • Tourism at the Core: Permanent Secretary Flags NTDA as Key Driver of Nigeria’s Creative Economy

    Tourism at the Core: Permanent Secretary Flags NTDA as Key Driver of Nigeria’s Creative Economy

    The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy (FMACTCE), Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, on Wednesday paid a working visit to the headquarters of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Abuja. He was accompanied by Directors from the Ministry.

    In his remarks, Dr. Muhammad noted that the visit was long overdue, emphasizing that NTDA is the first agency he is officially visiting since assuming office. He described the Authority as a core and strategic institution within the ministry’s ecosystem.

    “NTDA is vital to this sector. Everything we do—whether in art, music, culture, or creativity—culminates in tourism. Your mandate is clear, and the success of Nigeria’s tourism sector hinges on NTDA’s ability to deliver on it. We must work together to make Nigeria the next leading tourist destination,” he stated.

    The Permanent Secretary underscored the importance of collaboration rather than competition among sister agencies, adding that overlapping functions should be seen as strengths rather than challenges. He urged the Authority to identify low-hanging fruits, set priorities, and drive initiatives that would showcase Nigeria’s rich tourism potential both locally and internationally.

    Dr. Muhammad further emphasized that Nigeria’s diversity, from the Sahara fringes to the mangroves of the south, offers immense opportunities for tourism development. He encouraged NTDA to leverage public-private partnerships (PPP) and innovative financing, stressing that lack of government funding should not be a barrier to success.

    Responding, the Director overseeing the Office of the Director-General, NTDA, Mr. Ovie Esewhaye, expressed gratitude to the Permanent Secretary for his encouragement and support.

    “We need to do more than what we are doing, and from what you said, Sir, indeed tourism can fund Nigeria’s Economy”Mr. Ovie noted.

    He further outlined some of the Authority’s recent strides, including:
    • Ongoing finalization of regulations to strengthen the implementation of the NTDA Act.
    • Digitilization of accreditation processes for Hospitality and Tourism Establishments (HTEs), with grading and classification also being transitioned to an online platform.
    • Partnerships with ECOWAS and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria on national tourism standards.
    • Promotion of the Tour Nigeria brand across festivals, exhibitions, and seminars to deepen domestic tourism.
    • Plans to operationalize provisions of the NTDA Act such as the Tourism Departure Levy and the Tourism Development Fund in collaboration with FAAN, Immigration, and other stakeholders.
    • Establishment of the Convention and Visitors Bureau to market Nigeria as a Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) destination.
    • Strengthening of the National Travel Bureau (NTB) to package and promote tours effectively.
    • Improved tourism data collection through digital dashboards, in line with CBN and UN requirements.
    • Partnership with the LetsGoNigeria App, a one-stop shop for tourism information covering attractions, hotels, restaurants, and more across all 36 states and the FCT.

    “Our accreditation process has gone online. HTEs can now register their businesses from anywhere in the world. We are also working on a digital platform for grading and classification in collaboration with stakeholders, and the Tour Nigeria brand continues to drive domestic tourism,” Mr. Ovie added.

    He assured the Permanent Secretary that NTDA remains committed to delivering on its mandate, promoting the Tour Nigeria brand, and positioning Nigeria as a globally competitive tourist destination.

  • Ex-tourism minister Ogbuewu, Bode-Thomas, Runsewe, others for honour at ANJET conference, awards

    More than 18 years after he presided over affairs at the Nigerian Ministry of Tourism and Culture, former minister Ambassador Franklin Nchita Ogbuewu will be among the award recipients at the 2025 ANJET Conference and Award. The event is expected to be held at Sheraton Lagos Hotel and Towers on Thursday, October 23.

    Other personalities to be honoured at the award include: Otunba Segun Runsewe, former Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) and the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC); Chief Abimbola Bode-Thomas-a very active voice in the tourism space in the 90’s and early 2000, Mr. Jemi Alade, Nigeria’s foremost tour operator; Tarzan Balogun, pioneer tourism-boat operator; Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, ex-FTAN president, foremost Destination Cross River and Experience Ibom promoter through his Remlords Group; Mr. Trevor Ward, CEO of W Hospitality, international consultant on Nigerian tourism and hospitality industry.

    Also top international and local hospitality brands that have contributed to the growth of the Nigerian tourism and hospitality industry will be honoured. They include: Sheraton Lagos Hotel and Towers, Eko Hotel and Suites, Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos Airport Hotel, Premier Hotel Ibadan, La Campagne Tropicana Resort, Ikegun Lagos, and Festival Hotel Festac Lagos (former Durbar Hotel).

    Speaking at the conference and awards, ANJET President Okorie Uguru said. “This year’s conference and award is to celebrate resilience, excellence and positive contributions to the growth of the tourism and hospitality industry in Nigeria.

    “Sheraton Lagos Hotel and Towers came into the Nigerian hospitality space when many international brands were still skeptical about the country. The brand helped to build Nigeria as a business and leisure destination, for the brand to still be waxing strong after 40 years, calls for celebration.

    “All the hotels and resort we are honouring have stood the test of time and passed through difficult times, but are still standing. We know a hotel like Premier Hotel Ibadan is reinventing itself through physical upgrades of facilities. That is why we are honouring it.”

    Among the awardees that have received their notification letter is Mr. Jemi Alade, Nigeria’s foremost tour operator. Alade expressed happiness for the award and said he was elated to be remembered after so many years.

  • Bolanle Austen-Peters To Deliver Keynote on Nollywoods Future at NFVCB Digital Content Conference

    Bolanle Austen-Peters To Deliver Keynote on Nollywoods Future at NFVCB Digital Content Conference

     

    The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) have announced that the internationally acclaimed theatre and film powerhouse, Bolanle Austen-Peters, will deliver the keynote address at the 5th Edition of the Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Nigerian Digital Content Regulatory Conference (PAO NDCRC), scheduled to hold on November 18th and 19th, 2025, at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos.

     

    To be held under the theme, From Volume to Value: Future of Nollywood in the Digital Age, this years edition of the PAO NDCRC conference will interrogate the next growth frontier for Nigerias vibrant film and creative content industry, focusing on scaling up quality, deepening value creation, and strengthening sustainability in a digital-first world. The trailblazing theatre and film amazon who is popularly called BAP is expected to lead conversations around how Nollywood can shift gears from sheer output to sustainable value creation in the digital era. BAPs keynote which is on the theme of the conference is expected to set the stage for two power-packed days of panels and conversations with stakeholders, industry leaders, regulators, policymakers, creatives, academics, and investors across Nigerias creative economy.

     

    Described roundly as Queen of Nigerian Theatre and a visionary filmmaker, Bolanle Austen-Peters has consistently set new benchmarks for storytelling excellence and global cultural diplomacy. Founder of Terra Kulture and BAP Productions, the celebrated stage and screen amazon has staged iconic productions like Saro the Musical and Fela & the Kalakuta Queens, while also producing acclaimed feature films including The Bling Lagosians, and Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti. Her works have toured internationally, earning her recognition for pushing the boundaries of African storytelling and spotlighting Nigerias rich heritage on the global stage.

     

    Speaking on the announcement, Executive Director of the NFVCB Dr. Shaibu Husseini said: “BAP is a natural choice for this years keynote. She embodies the perfect blend of artistic excellence, innovation, and business acumen that Nollywood must embrace in the digital age. Her remarkable contributions to theatre and film demonstrate the kind of value-driven storytelling that this years conference theme champions. We are confident her keynote will inspire bold thinking and set the right tone for the future of our industry.

     

    The PAO NDCRC has, since inception, established itself as the foremost national platform for shaping conversations on film, content regulation, and the digital future of Nollywood. Last year, the 4th Edition, also held in Lagos in November 2024. It featured celebrated media and film mogul Mo Abudu as the Keynote Speaker, further cementing the conference as a gathering place for the brightest minds and most influential voices in the creative sector.

  • FTAN President Lauds Wavecrest College of Hospitality on Groundbreaking Skills Enterprise Centre

    FTAN President Lauds Wavecrest College of Hospitality on Groundbreaking Skills Enterprise Centre

    The President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Dr. Aliyu Badaki, has commended the management of Wavecrest College of Hospitality for its visionary step in establishing the Wavecrest Hospitality Skills and Enterprise Development Centre of Excellence (HSEDCE).

     

    Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Dr. Badaki described Wavecrest College as a pride of Nigeria’s hospitality industry, noting that the institution has consistently bridged the manpower gap by producing skilled professionals for the sector.

     

    Founded in 1972 by the Women’s Board Educational Cooperation Society (WB-ECS), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to empowering Nigerian women through education and economic opportunities, Wavecrest College has remained a beacon of hospitality training. Over the years, it has equipped more than 3,000 young women, particularly from underserved communities, with industry-relevant skills, paving the way for self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and professional excellence.

     

    The College recently secured a grant from the AUDA-NEPAD and KfW-sponsored Skills for Africa Initiative (SIFA) to expand its facilities. The project involves the construction and equipping of an ultra-modern training centre designed to empower women with National Skills Qualification (NSQ) certification.

     

    According to the management, the new Centre—approved in 2023—marks a turning point in Wavecrest’s mission to reach more communities and transform more lives. Following due process, Telisol Limited emerged as the contractor and officially took possession of the project site on July 14.

     

    The groundbreaking ceremony was celebrated as a milestone in Wavecrest’s journey of skill development and empowerment. Once completed, the Wavecrest HSEDCE is projected to directly benefit over 3,000 women within its first three to five years. More than 60% are expected to establish their own businesses, while others will contribute to Nigeria’s rapidly growing hospitality workforce—uplifting families, strengthening communities, and driving national growth.

  • Father of the Bride, Alhaji Yusuf Mato, Expresses Gratitude to Guests at Daughter’s Wedding

    Father of the Bride, Alhaji Yusuf Mato, Expresses Gratitude to Guests at Daughter’s Wedding

    Father of the Bride Expresses Gratitude to Guests at Daughter’s Wedding

    Abuja, Nigeria – The father of the bride, Alhaji Yusuf Mato, has extended profound appreciation to all dignitaries, friends, family members, and well-wishers who graced the recent wedding ceremony of his daughter, Princess Firdausi Yusuf Mato, and her groom, Nazir Zubairu Baba, held at the National Mosque Complex in Abuja, on the 26th July, 2025.

    In a statement issued on behalf of the Mato family, Alhaji Yusuf described the event as a moment of joy and spiritual significance, made even more special by the presence and goodwill of respected individuals from various walks of life.

    He expressed particular gratitude to the Emir of Dass, Alhaji Usman Bilyaminu Othman, who stood in as the Waliyyi of the bride and delivered a message encouraging Nigerian youths to build their homes on trust, moral uprightness, and perseverance.

    “We are deeply honoured by the presence of His Royal Highness, the Emir of Dass, whose words of wisdom and fatherly blessings added immense value to the occasion,” the statement read.

    Alhaji Yusuf also acknowledged the contribution of the Chief Imam of the National Mosque, Professor Muhammad Adam Kabir, who officiated the Nikah and offered prayers for peace, stability, and happiness in the lives of the couple and in all Nigerian homes.

    “The support and goodwill extended by our relatives, friends, colleagues, and members of the public who attended, called, or sent messages are deeply appreciated. Their presence gave strength and warmth to the celebration,” the father of the bride said.

    He further commended the organizing team and well-wishers for their efforts in ensuring the smooth conduct of the ceremony, noting that their dedication contributed to the success of the day.

    “On behalf of my family, I say thank you to everyone who stood with us to witness this important milestone. We pray that Almighty Allah rewards your kindness and grants you the opportunity to celebrate joyful events in your own homes,” he added.

    Alhaji Yusuf also prayed for the newlyweds, Firdausi and Nazir, wishing them a harmonious and prosperous union built on mutual respect, love, and the fear of God.

  • Prince Akinrinade Urges Peace in Eruwa Royal Matter.

    Prince Akinrinade Urges Peace in Eruwa Royal Matter.

    Prince Akinrinade Urges Peace in Eruwa Royal Matter.

    By Adewale Owoade

    Prince Akinrinade Ajani Adeyemi, a contender for the Eleruwa position from the Omoni Royal Family of Laribikusi Ruling House, has urged for peace and calm following the installation of Samuel Adegbola as Eleruwa of Eruwa.

    Prince Akinrinade, who was nominated by the Omoni Royal Family, appealed to all members of the family and the Laribikusi Ruling House to avoid actions that could disrupt the town’s peace.

    ‎While acknowledging the installation of Adegbola, Prince Akinrinade expressed concerns over the legitimacy of the process, describing it as “daylight robbery.”

    He noted that Adegbola’s installation appears to be an attempt to block the Laribikusi Ruling House’s chance to produce the new Eleruwa, despite a Supreme Court judgment in 2019.

    Prince Akinrinade urged the people of Eruwa, particularly the Omoni Royal Family and Laribikusi Ruling House, to maintain peace and avoid actions that could threaten their coexistence.

    He also encouraged them to have confidence in the judiciary and patiently wait for the outcome of court processes, assuring them that truth will prevail.

  • Art Stakeholders Advocate Preservation of African Culture

    Art Stakeholders Advocate Preservation of African Culture

    Art Stakeholders Advocate Preservation of African Culture

    By Adewale Owoade

    Notable art curators and enthusiasts have stressed the need to preserve African art, culture and traditions.

    They made the call at the 7th Art Competition and Inter-Schools Talent Hunt Exhibition, held at the National Museum of Unity (NCMC), Aleshinloye, Ibadan.

    The stakeholders urged Africans to celebrate their roots and honour their stories to inspire pride in future generations.

    They said African cultural heritage was crucial for fostering identity and promoting intercultural understanding.

    ‎The convener of the exhibition, Olaide Turner-Moyet, encouraged young talents to take their future into their own hands and celebrate their African heritage.

    ‎“The mission is to foster confidence and curiosity in young minds by allowing them to see through their own perspective and sculpt their stories.

    ‎“This event is an initiative deeply rooted in purpose, passion and the profound power of creative expression.

    ‎“The inspiration behind this initiative is the pressing need to engage and empower the next generation by building their confidence and nurturing their talents.

    ‎“It also aims to provide meaningful exposure that validates their dreams,” she said.

    A guest lecturer, Chief Tunde Odunlade, a renowned artist and cultural expert, called on Nigerians to unite in preserving the nation’s arts and culture.

    He said the country could not afford to let its rich heritage fade into obscurity, adding that wisdom resided in traditions.

    ‎”Incorporating traditional art forms into the curriculum is vital. This not only preserves our rich history but also empowers students to express their identities confidently.”

    “When young people understand and value their culture, they become ambassadors of that heritage, carrying it forward into the future.

    ‎”Communities must take ownership of their cultural narratives. By hosting local events and supporting emerging artists, we can create a vibrant cultural landscape that resonates with all.”

    ‎”This is where true empowerment lies, when individuals feel a sense of belonging and pride in their cultural identities,” he said.

    Also speaking, the Director of Medical Social Services, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Olagunju Adelayo, stressed the need for moral instruction in school curricula.

    “We must reinstate moral instruction in the school curriculum,” he suggested.

    ‎The Media Head of the Young Artist Art Hub, Comrade Olawale Ogunbusola, urged students to nurture their talents, saying such gifts could open doors to high places if discovered and developed early.

    ‎The Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr Segun Olayiwola, represented by the Registrar of Exams, Mr Johnson Awodeji, urged leaders to tap into the potential of Nigerian youths.

    ‎”We have a lot of talent in this country, it just for our leaders to get it right and do the needful so that these talents will not waste away.

    “I want to encourage the parents of these children to continue to guide them, pray for them so that the gift will not be a waste .”

    ‎A virtual artist, Oluwole Omofemi, said government should support the art sector and promote young artists.

    ‎”It is a good thing to discover new artists which will give a kind of platform for creativity in the art sector.

    ‎”If we have more of this a lot of younger artists will also be discovered like I was discovered few years ago.

    ‎”The government should get more involved in the art sector to promote younger artists, because we need more creative people in the country, people that can come up with different ideas, new innovative that can help.

    “I would also like to encourage the parents that whatever their kids decide to do they should give total support .”

    ‎The event featured award presentations to schools that won various art competitions.

    ‎Some of the award-winning schools included Lead City International School, St. Louis Grammar School, Bodija International College, Quiblah International School, Community High School, Iseyin, and Community High School, Samonda.

    ‎The event, themed “My African Roots; My Pride”, aimed to promote African cultural heritage and inspire young talents. (NAN)

  • Runsewe to Host Valedictory Celebration in Honour of FTAN President, Nkereweum Onung

    Runsewe to Host Valedictory Celebration in Honour of FTAN President, Nkereweum Onung

     

     

    Nigeria’s foremost cultural tourism administrator and former Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Otunba Segun Runsewe, has inaugurated a committee to organise a valedictory party in honour of Mr. Nkereweum Onung, the outgoing President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN).

     

    Mr. Onung is set to bow out of office on July 31, 2025, after completing two impactful terms as FTAN President. His tenure is widely celebrated for fostering strong collaborations between industry stakeholders, government institutions, and private sector players.

     

    During his leadership, Nigeria re-established its presence on the global tourism stage, particularly through participation at the World Travel Market in London. His term also witnessed significant institutional shifts, including the brief creation of a stand-alone Ministry of Tourism—later remerged with Culture—reflecting the federal government’s renewed recognition of culture as the bedrock of Nigeria’s tourism sector.

     

    Nkereweum Onung currently serves as the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State on Culture and Tourism. He is also the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) and a BOT member of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN).

     

    Describing Onung as a resilient leader and visionary, Otunba Runsewe praised his exceptional ability to manage diverse interests within the tourism ecosystem.

     

    “Nkereweum Onung deserves our appreciation and honour,” Runsewe said. “If you understand how complex it is to manage Nigeria’s cultural tourism sector and its many operators, you’ll agree that Onung’s leadership in keeping FTAN united through challenging times is remarkable. That’s why I have decided to personally organise a night of praise and honour for this humble and outstanding gentleman.”

     

    The valedictory celebration will hold during the FTAN Elective Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for Abuja between July 28 and 31, 2025.

     

    To lead the planning of the event, Otunba Runsewe has appointed Mrs. Susan Akporiaye, immediate past President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), as Chairperson. Also named as a member of the committee is Mr. Frank Meke, a renowned cultural tourism journalist and CEO of *Creative Naija*, a leading cultural tourism-focused radio show.

     

    In her acceptance, Mrs. Akporiaye—who also heads the FTAN 2025 AGM Planning Committee—pledged to deliver a befitting event in honour of Mr. Onung. She also expressed gratitude to Otunba Runsewe for his unwavering commitment to the growth, unity, and recognition of the private sector in the Nigerian tourism industry.