The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) is seeking international investment and strategic partnerships to strengthen the country’s tourism industry as it showcases Nigerian destinations at the 2026 World Travel Market (WTM) in London.
The Director-General of the authority, Ola Awakan, said Nigeria’s participation in the global tourism event would provide an opportunity to attract investors, promote emerging destinations and expand the country’s presence in international tourism markets.
Awakan disclosed this in a statement issued from London on Tuesday, noting that Nigeria’s participation had received the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The presidential endorsement followed a courtesy visit by the NTDA director-general to Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
According to Awakan, the authority is using the international platform to promote collaboration, innovation and strategic storytelling in presenting Nigeria’s tourism potential to the global community.
He said the engagement was also aimed at attracting investment into tourism infrastructure, hospitality and related services, strengthening the sector’s contribution to economic diversification and job creation under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The NTDA chief said the event was providing opportunities to build strategic partnerships with international tour operators, airlines and destination management companies to improve access to Nigerian destinations and expand the country’s tourism market.
He added that Nigeria’s delegation would showcase the country’s cultural heritage, natural attractions and emerging tourism products to encourage international visitors and increase private-sector participation in destination marketing.
Awakan also highlighted the involvement of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) and other private-sector stakeholders, saying their participation would strengthen the country’s presence at the global event.
The authority expressed optimism that the engagement would accelerate tourism development, increase Nigeria’s international visibility and reinforce the sector’s role in economic growth.
The World Travel Market is an international tourism industry gathering that brings together destinations, travel companies, airlines, tour operators and other industry stakeholders. For Nigeria, the opportunity will depend on translating international exposure into investment commitments, stronger travel connections and increased visitor arrivals.
