LAGOS-
The 14th edition of the Youth Tourism & Hospitality Leaders Forum (YTHLF), an annual gathering of young people, stakeholders and entrepreneurs in the tourism and hospitality sector, will hold in Ibadan on October 29, 2026.
According to a statement by the Convener of YTHLF and Managing Editor of Travelscope Magazine, Omololu Olumuyiwa, the forum is designed to sensitise, educate and motivate young people while promoting the social, cultural and economic value of the tourism and hospitality industry.
The 2026 edition is expected to bring together participants from across different backgrounds for a day of tourism education and industry engagement.
A distinguished tourism scholar Dr. T.G. Yusuf of the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, will deliver a keynote address on “ Youth Innovation, Digital Marketing & Tourism Development.”
Olumuyiwa also disclosed that notable scholars, industry stakeholders and young people who have contributed to the advancement of tourism in Nigeria will be recognised with awards during the event.
Participants will also have the opportunity to take part in raffle draws, with prizes including free aviation college scholarships.
Reflecting on the forum’s 14-year journey, Olumuyiwa said YTHLF, powered annually by Travelscope Magazine, had helped shape a more positive narrative around tourism, aviation and hospitality among young Nigerians.
“In its 14th year, the forum powered yearly by Travelscope Magazine has succeeded in creating a better narrative on tourism, aviation, and hospitality in the minds of the youths. It is now a must-attend educational platform for youths with passion to excel in the aviation, hospitality and tourism industry,” he said.
Olumuyiwa concluded that in recognition of the positive impacts of YTHLF, the event has the endorsement of federal government tourism agencies and several bodies, including the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Institute of Hospitality UK–Nigeria International Branch (IoH), Hospitality and Tourism Association of Nigeria (HATMAN), Institute of Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN), and Global Institute of Tourism and Hospitality (GITH).
