The Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN) has pledged to partner with the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, (NTDC) on its mission at re-positioning domestic tourism for national development.
Chief Tomi Akingbogun, FTAN President made this disclosure on an invitation by the Director General to discuss areas of collaboration in her office in Abuja.
Chief Akingbogun who was accompanied by all members of the Executive Council of the association commended the Mrs Mbanefo for this initiative to foster collaboration between the two organizations.
He further said that FTAN is the umbrella which harbours all tourism associations (all tourists practitioner, Hoteliers,tour operators etc)in Nigeria are registered with FTAN.
NTDC on the other hand is the vehicle driving the Federal Government tourism vision ,thus calling for purposeful synergy and collaboration ” Your organization drives the tourism vehicle while we make sure that the vehicle is not only occupied but that the Passengers there in have an evergreen and memorable experience on ground ” Chief Akingbogun said the the major roles of the federation are to consult, advise and represent the private sector in well policy formulation and implementation in government.
He further commended Mrs Mbanefo for offering the sector a new vista via her domestic tourism campaign which he said if embraced by Nigerians would expand the scope of business for tourism stakeholders.
” You have instilled confidence of purpose in the Sector since you assumed office. You are sequentially living up to your promises and implementing your programmes of action. Your performance at the World Travel Market in London last year vividly showcased you as a lady of purpose and promise. We are here not only to assure you of our support and willingness to collaborate with you but to identify with your vision.
Chief Akingbogun also lauded the NTDC boss, for
the warm reception and audience accorded them which he said was in tandem with the gospel of hospitality.
In the same vein, Mrs. Mbanefo in her response lauded the initiative of FTAN describing it as a right move in right direction adding that partnership with FTAN on regular basis will enhance private sector collaboration and help in Marketing and Promotion of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
She remarked that her duty is to fast track acts and activities which can help in promotion of domestic tourism in Nigeria” I am glad to have a willing partner in FTAN.
I am happy this all important association has keyed into the domestic tourism vision. It is a testimony that there is a hope of bloom for the tourism sector “.
Mrs Mbanefo , who pointed out some achievements which she has engendered since her appointment which includes organizing stakeholders meeting for both private and public sectors, signing of MOU with various private sector thus; ABC Transport, Arik Airline, Redington Hospital, Visa, Heritage Bank and Turkish Nigeria Chamber, reconstruction of NTDC House called ‘Green House’, Training of Staff for professional Tour Guide with NIHOTOUR, interaction and networking with ministers of African Countries all cultivating honour, advancing the cause of Nigeria , and presently visiting the six geo political zones to identify, authenticate and prioritize the development and enhancement of the tourist attractions.
She said that “the essence of my appointment is to bring in private sector experience and drive the public sector to be able to shift focus on over dependence on government subversion for funding”.
Mrs. Mbanefo disclosed that FTAN would be a strategic partner with NTDC “as we need all hands on deck to make tourism grow”.