By Peter Dansu In a symbolic start to his tenure, the newly appointed Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA...
By Peter Dansu
In a symbolic start to his tenure, the newly appointed Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Mr. Olayiwola Awakan, has described the ancient city of Badagry as “the haven of tourism in Nigeria,” pledging to harness the nation’s rich cultural heritage as a driver of economic growth.
Awakan made the remark during a courtesy visit to the palace of His Royal Majesty, the Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I. The visit formed part of the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) Mandatory Training Programme for Chief Executives of Federal Parastatals and Agencies, held in Badagry.
Accompanied by the Director General of ASCON, Dr. (Mrs.) Funke Adepoju, and the Artistic Director of the National Troupe of Nigeria, Hajia Kaltume Bulama Gana, Mr. Awakan said beginning his official engagements in Badagry was both symbolic and divine.
“Badagry is the haven of tourism in Nigeria,” he said. “Being newly appointed just two weeks ago, I see this as a divine opportunity to start from the roots of our cultural heritage.”
During the visit, the delegation discussed the importance of cultural preservation and community participation in tourism development. Observers say the move aligns perfectly with the vision of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, led by Hannatu Musa Musawa, which has been championing the Tour Nigeria initiative to promote domestic tourism and spotlight the country’s immense cultural wealth.
Industry experts believe Awakan’s decision to begin his administration with a heritage-focused engagement in Badagry, a town that holds deep historical significance as a major route in the transatlantic slave trade, reflects a clear commitment to reviving Nigeria’s tourism sector through its cultural foundations.
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