LAGOS – Mrs. Lola Ade-John, the Minister of Tourism has been chosen as the Special Guest of Honour at the forthcoming 20th edition of Akwaaba African Travel Market.
The three days tourism and hospitality event, which would start on September 22 through 24 in Lagos, would also highlight the seventh African Youth Tourism Bantaba.
A statement by Mr. Ikechi Uko, the organiser of the event, said that the minister’s involvement underscored the Nigerian government’s dedication to youth empowerment and tourism development.
The statement hinted that Ade-John since her appointment last year, had been a strong advocate for sustainable tourism and would deliver the keynote address, focusing on the role of young Africans in shaping the future of tourism on the continent.
The African Youth Tourism Bantaba has grown into one of the most important segments of the Akwaaba Travel Market, providing a platform for young tourism enthusiasts, students, and emerging professionals to interact with industry leaders, share ideas, and gain insights into the workings of the tourism and hospitality sectors.
With Africa’s tourism industry projected to grow rapidly, this year’s Youth Bantaba, Uko said would focus on ‘Activating The Youth Tourism Potentials of Africa, A Call To Duty.’
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Also, the famous Jollof Rice challenge would kick-off on the September 22, with chef from top hotels in Nigeria vying for mouthwatering prizes.
Furthermore, the organisers of Akwaaba African Travel Market would be giving out a N5 million grant to selected institutions, brands, journalists and young tour operators, each recognised for their contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria’s tourism industry as part of the Fatima Garbati Tourism Outreach Grant.
The statement emphasised that this is an initiative aimed at empowering the next generation of tourism leaders in the country.
The statement added: “The 20th edition will also witness several high-profile newcomers making their debut. Mövenpick Hotel & Residence Nairobi from Kenya, Memorial Healthcare Group from Turkey, and Costa Cruises from Italy will be participating for the first time, adding a new dimension to this prestigious event scheduled to take place from September 22nd to 24th, 2024, in Lagos, Nigeria.
“Mövenpick Hotel & Residence Nairobi, renowned for its upscale hospitality and prime location in the heart of Kenya’s capital, will be showcasing its luxurious offerings to a diverse audience at Akwaaba. The hotel, which embodies African-themed design and world-class service, is eager to connect with key stakeholders in the African travel market.”
Joining Mövenpick at Akwaaba for the first time is Memorial Healthcare Group, a leading private healthcare organization based in Turkey.
Memorial Healthcare is known for its cutting-edge medical services and state-of-the-art facilities, and its participation at Akwaaba underscores the growing intersection of healthcare and tourism.
