The Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) held its highly successful 8th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Ilorin, Kwara State, with notable personalities from the tourism industry and government circles in attendance. Among the distinguished guests were the First Lady of Kwara State, Professor Olufolake Abdurazaq, Minister of Tourism Mrs. Lola Ade-John, Commissioner for Communication Mrs. Bola Olukoju, representatives of the Emir of Ilorin, traditional rulers, and many other dignitaries.
At the AGM, an election was conducted amongst the members of the association, resulting in Alhaja Bolaji Mustapha of Grand Express Tour (GET) Centre emerging as the new President of NATOP. Mustapha was elected unopposed, moving up from her previous role as Deputy President. In her acceptance speech, Mustapha expressed her gratitude for the trust placed in her and committed to advancing the goals of NATOP.
The newly elected executives of NATOP include:
Mrs. Geraldine Itoe as Deputy President
Otunba Michael Balogun as General Secretary
Mrs. Joy Alexander-Oziegbe as Deputy General Secretary
Ogugua Anobili as Financial Secretary
Odion Chigbufue as Treasurer
Mr . Onyeka as Public Relation Officer
Anago Osho as Vice President, South West
Mark Moore as Vice President/FCT
Ex-NATOP President, Mrs. Ime Udo, highlighted the success of the AGM in identifying, exploring, and promoting tourism destinations. She emphasized the importance of engaging policymakers for collaboration, infrastructure development, and best practices within the tourism industry. Udo noted that the AGM’s approach has stimulated awareness and growth in the states where it has been held, allowing tour operators to gain firsthand experience and curate tour packages to these destinations.
Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) and Chairman of the NATOP Board of Trustees, commended the tour operators for their efforts in promoting Nigeria as a tourism destination despite economic challenges. He encouraged members to remember the power of unity, collaboration, and innovation, and to work together to promote sustainable tourism practices, enhance service quality, and showcase Nigeria’s beauty and diversity.
The AGM concluded with a renewed commitment from the newly elected executives to drive the growth of the tourism industry in Nigeria and create an enabling environment for tour operators to thrive.
