The Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Dr. Olayiwola Awakan, has received Ugandan tourism expert Lilly Ajarova during a courtesy visit aimed at strengthening strategies to reposition Nigeria as a leading global tourism destination.
Ajarova, a tourism and conservation specialist, author and former Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Tourism Board, met with the NTDA leadership to explore collaborative approaches to destination branding and sector development.
Central to the discussions was NTDA’s proposal to establish an International Tourism City designed as a one-stop hub showcasing Nigeria’s diverse cultural and tourism assets. The Director-General also outlined plans for Tourism Villages across the country’s geo-political zones, alongside expanded partnerships with state governments and private sector stakeholders.
Awakan emphasized the strategic use of digital technology, storytelling and the creative economy under the “Naija Flavour” concept to boost visitor numbers, diversify revenue sources and position Nigeria as Africa’s cultural capital.
In her remarks, Ajarova urged Nigerian tourism authorities to adopt bold, globally competitive strategies capable of attracting international travelers, countering negative perceptions and strengthening the country’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) segment.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to promoting authentic Nigerian stories and experiences, underscoring a shared vision of inviting the world to engage more deeply with Nigeria’s cultural richness and tourism potential.
