Uyo–
The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) has officially announced that its 2025 Governing Council Meeting will be held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from May 21st to 24th. This was revealed during a high-profile World Press Briefing addressed by FTAN President, Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, who shared strategic insights into the federation’s agenda and Nigeria’s growing tourism landscape.
Speaking to the press, Mr. Onung reaffirmed FTAN’s role as the apex body of the tourism private sector in Nigeria, uniting over 23 professional associations that span travel and tour operators, hospitality experts, destination managers, youth tourism bodies, and more.
“The 2025 FTAN Convention will include three major components: the Governing Council Meeting, a Tourism Stakeholders Gala, and the ‘Experience Ibom’ Tour,” he announced. “This gathering will serve as a platform for industry deliberations, idea-sharing, and showcasing the rich tourism potential of Akwa Ibom.”
The choice of Akwa Ibom State as host, Mr. Onung said, is a nod to its emerging status as a leading tourism destination in Africa. He praised the vision of the state’s governor, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., under whose administration critical tourism developments have been initiated. Onung also acknowledged his appointment as the Governor’s Honorary Special Adviser on Culture & Tourism as a testament to the state’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
Among the key strides made by the Akwa Ibom State Government are:
- Promotion of PEACE as a tourism product, recognizing peace as the foundation for development;
- Massive investment in tourism infrastructure aimed at job creation and boosting local economies;
- Construction of ARISE PARK, a state-of-the-art recreational facility;
- Cultural preservation initiatives including the Ibom Christmas Unplugged, a 32-day cultural festival;
- Establishment of a dedicated tourism committee to harness the state’s full tourism potential;
- Public-private partnerships to drive innovation and development across the sector.
The FTAN President appealed for media support and national stakeholder participation in the upcoming convention, while also inviting sponsors and partners to align with the event for mutual visibility and impact.
“This convention in Uyo is not just about meetings; it is a celebration of Nigeria’s tourism strength and a practical demonstration of Akwa Ibom’s rising star in the African tourism galaxy,” Onung concluded.
