The National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) is marking its 50th anniversary with a bold strategy to redefine Nigeria’s travel identity and restore confidence in the country’s tourism sector.
Ahead of the Golden Jubilee Annual General Meeting (AGM), NANTA President Yinka Folami said the association is repositioning to tackle negative global perceptions and strengthen Nigeria’s image internationally.
The AGM, scheduled to hold in Ibadan from April 14 to April 18, 2026, will focus on reforms aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s travel industry rather than just celebration.
Rebuilding Nigeria
Folami stressed the importance of travel professionals taking responsibility for Nigeria’s global perception while discussing the NANTA Golden Jubilee Nigeria travel identity agenda.
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He noted that persistent negative headlines, visa restrictions, and declining international trust continue to affect Nigeria’s reputation.
“NANTA is committed to changing the narrative by promoting positive stories about Nigeria through travel engagements and global partnerships. NANTA members will serve as unofficial diplomats, helping to reshape global opinion and attract more visitors and investors into Nigeria’s tourism sector.”
Cultural Heritage
The Golden Jubilee theme: Embracing Our Diverse Cultural Heritage from the City of Firsts, reflects Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity as a key driver of the Nigeria travel identity strategy.
The event will convene stakeholders across aviation, tourism, culture, and government, strengthening collaboration as a critical pillar for industry growth.
Challenges
As part of the NANTA Golden Jubilee Nigeria travel identity plan, the association is tackling major structural challenges affecting the sector, including:
- Visa restrictions impacting Nigerian travellers
- Declining global confidence
- Unethical practices and fraud within the industry
- Cross-border ticket trading and market inefficiencies
Folami emphasised that improving professionalism, enforcing standards, and strengthening internal regulations were essential to rebuilding trust.
NANTA is also expanding training programs to ensure its members meet global best practices and adapt to evolving digital standards.
New Vision
As NANTA celebrates 50 years, the focus is on long-term transformation.
The Golden Jubilee represents a strategic turning point to reposition Nigeria as a credible and competitive global tourism destination.
With stronger partnerships, improved regulation, and a clear vision, NANTA aims to rebuild Nigeria’s travel identity and empower travel professionals as true ambassadors of the nation.
