From Nigeria to Ghana and beyond, Mrs. Ebele Enemchukwu has emerged as one of the continent’s most consistent voices in regional tourism promotion. A professional compère, soft skills expert, and former Mrs. United Nations Tourism, she has lent her voice, and poise, to platforms that shape how West Africa is seen and experienced.
At the recently concluded Accraweizo Travel Expo, held at Accra City Hotel, Enemchukwu once again took centre stage, not just as anchorwoman but as a strategic player in a broader conversation around tourism, diplomacy, and cross-border mobility in the region.
In this exclusive interview, she speaks on her journey into tourism advocacy, how she balances family and purpose, and why telling Africa’s tourism stories from an African perspective is no longer negotiable.
You’re here again in Ghana, participating in this year’s Accraweizo. What does your presence here represent, both personally and professionally?
Ebele Enemchukwu:
Being here is more than just showing up, I’m part of the journey. I’ve just finished anchoring the event at Accra City Hotel, where key players across the West African tourism ecosystem gathered to interrogate one of our region’s most pressing issues: seamless intra-African travel.
This year’s theme, Reimagining the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol, hits home for me. I was part of last year’s road trip along the Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Ghana corridor. We saw the opportunities, yes, but also felt the weight of the challenges. So for me, returning this year isn’t symbolic, it’s strategic. This is a cause I believe in. And truly, there was nothing in the world that could have kept me away.
You served as the anchorwoman for the event. Was this your first time in that role at Accraweizo?
Ebele Enemchukwu:
Oh no, this isn’t my first time. I’ve been part of Accraweizo for quite a while, this should be my seventh appearance. I’ve moderated panel sessions in the past, but more often than not, I find myself anchoring, helping to guide the flow of the event.
I’m a professional compère, some might say MC, but the term compère better captures the structure and corporate nature of what I do. I focus on formal and industry events, and I’ve done this not only in Nigeria but across Africa and internationally. So yes, this is very much within my calling, and I approach it with both passion and preparation.
You wear many hats, professional compère, soft skills trainer, wife and mother of three teenagers. How do you manage it all?
Ebele Enemchukwu:
It’s not easy, and I will never pretend that it is. But then again, nothing of value ever really is. The key for me is time management and clarity of purpose. I always say you must manage your time, talent, and treasure. If something does not align with your priorities, it’s okay to say no.
Before committing to any engagement, I always check my calendar, looking at both professional and personal obligations. I believe discipline is doing what needs to be done, even when it’s not convenient.
I work full-time, currently raising three teenagers, and still managed to travel the world to speak and serve. My husband has been my strongest supporter, from when I emerged Mrs. Nigeria United Nations, to when I represented Nigeria at the International Pageant in Jamaica, winning the Mrs. Tourism United Nations World crown, I had 150 percent support. And the children, who were still very young then, have grown to understand and appreciate what I do. I also have a strong support system around me, and that makes all the difference.
READ: Africa: Accra Weizo Famtrip Explores Ghana’s Historic Sites
How did winning the Mrs. Tourism title impact your path into tourism advocacy?
Ebele Enemchukwu:
Winning the Mrs. Nigeria title first, and later representing the country in Kingston, Jamaica in 2015 as Mrs. United Nations Tourism, was a major turning point for me. It wasn’t just about pageantry; it was a platform.
I’ve always had something to say, whether it’s about tourism, women empowerment, or nation-building before i chose to contest. That title gave me a broader audience. It amplified my voice.
Before I accepted to participate, I ensured there were no swimsuit segments, my husband’s one condition! (laughs) But it aligned with my values, and I used the platform to drive substance, not just style. And from there, one step led to another, and tourism became a permanent part of my journey.
You were recognised for the first time this year after seven consistent appearances at Accraweizo. How did that feel?
Ebele Enemchukwu:
It was deeply humbling. I always say, Big Brother is watching. Not in the reality TV sense, but as a reminder that someone is always observing, even when you think no one sees you.
You don’t do what you do for applause, but when it comes, it reinforces your ‘why’. It’s not just about the physical award, it’s about being seen, acknowledged, and challenged to do more.
I always tell people: when your old work still defines you today, then you’re not evolving. I constantly push myself to improve. This recognition has only strengthened my resolve to aim even higher, not just within Africa, but globally.
You danced after receiving your award, a rare sight from someone known for composure. What moved you in that moment?
Ebele Enemchukwu:
Ah, yes! (laughs) It was completely unplanned. But sometimes joy overflows. That dance wasn’t just a performance, it was a release. A moment of gratitude. A quiet voice saying, “It’s been worth it.”
When what you did many years ago still feels like a big deal, and the only thing you have to show today, then you are not evolving. The joy is real. So yes, I danced. And I’m glad I did.
What’s your overall impression of this year’s Accraweizo and the discussions that took place?
Ebele Enemchukwu:
This platform is gold. And I mean that sincerely. If anyone has thoughts of letting it fade, they need to reassess. Accraweizo, now in its eighth edition, is not just an event, it’s a legacy.
In two years, we will be celebrating a decade. And if you look at Akwaaba African Travel Market, which turns 21 this year, both events were founded by Mr. Ikechi Uko, a true visionary. That level of consistency deserves applause, and support.
What makes Accraweizo powerful is its balance. It’s celebratory but also deeply educational. We’re not just networking, we’re shaping policy, examining protocols, and designing the future of travel in West Africa. That blend is what makes it irreplaceable.
Looking back, from turning down early modelling and media invitations to now anchoring global tourism conversations, how do you view the evolution of your story?
Ebele Enemchukwu:
It tells me that purpose always finds a way, if you stay true, stay prepared, and trust the process.
There were many early opportunities I turned down, not because I lacked the skill, but because the values or timing were not right. But the desire to speak, to inspire, to lead, it was always there. I just waited for the right doors to open.
Now, after judging multiple carnivals, publishing a compendium of national festival themes, anchoring conferences, and promoting tourism across borders, I can confidently say: it all connects.
So to anyone reading this, you don’t need a big start to build a big future. Be diligent with what you do. Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can. The universe rewards consistency. And while it tarries, don’t forget to give yourself a pat on the back every now and again.
By Janefrances Chibuzor
