The Federal Government has called for renewed focus on domestic tourism as the bedrock for Africa’s long-term growth in the sector.
Delivering the keynote address at the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market in Lagos, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad (MFR), emphasized that Africa must first encourage its citizens to explore their own heritage, landscapes, cuisine, and festivals if the continent is to achieve a sustainable tourism future.
Speaking to participants from over 20 countries at the Eko Hotels Convention Centre, Dr. Muhammad praised Akwaaba for evolving beyond an exhibition into “a continental hub of ideas, innovation, and collaboration,” attracting world leaders, international organizations, and millions of visitors over its two decades of existence.
This year’s edition, themed “Domestic Tourism in Africa,” he said, is both timely and relevant. “By strengthening domestic tourism, we are not only building national pride but also creating jobs, stimulating inclusive growth, and laying the foundation for a resilient industry,” he noted.
Highlighting Nigeria’s leadership role, the Permanent Secretary announced that the Ministry is advancing initiatives in community-based tourism, infrastructure upgrades, creative industry linkages, and public-private partnerships. He also revealed that a review of the National Tourism Policy is underway and urged stakeholders to contribute to the process.
Dr. Muhammad further outlined five key priorities for African tourism: building stronger intra-African travel networks, investing in youth, embracing technology and digitization, strengthening public-private partnerships, and telling Africa’s story proudly to the world.
“Nigeria is proud to showcase its cultural and creative assets at Akwaaba,” he said, adding that the platform presents opportunities for partnerships across tourism investment, aviation, hospitality, technology, and youth development.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to work with Akwaaba and regional partners in building a resilient and globally competitive tourism industry, while congratulating the organizers for sustaining the event over the years.
The 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market, West Africa’s largest tourism expo, ran from September 14–16, 2025, featuring exhibitions, the Africa Food Fair, Medical Tourism Conference, Youth Tourism Forum, and the Africa Travel 100 Awards, among other sessions.
