The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) in Ekiti has inaugurated new executive members to run its affairs for the next three years.

The new officials were sworn in by the chairman, ATPN Board of Trustees (BOT), Kabir Malan, in Ado-Ekiti on Sunday.

Mr Malan, represented by a BOT member, John Best, charged the officials to promote Nigeria’s cultural values and patronise collaboration, innovation and strategic thinking.

Mr Malan described the association as a platform needed to drive tourism in Nigeria.

According to him, tourism, particularly in Ekiti, has the potential to attract both local and international tourists if properly harnessed.

“It is not just the natural beauty of the land that matters, but the experience created, the service provided and the partnership built to position the state as a hope of tourism excellence in Nigeria,” he said.

He assured the association of his support, promising to work hand-in-hand with the new executive members to develop sustainable tourism practices.

He also promised to encourage capacity building and initiatives for the policies and infrastructure expected to make Ekiti a world-class tourism destination.

ATPN patron in Ekiti, Sen. Babafemi Ojudu, said tourism had gone beyond having beautiful landscapes and historical landmarks. 

“It now includes storytelling and inviting others to experience the magic we live with every day,” he said.

Mr Ojudu urged the new officials to embark on significant steps toward harnessing the immense potential of the state’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance.

In addition, he charged them to showcase the unique culture and attractions of the state to the rest of the world, thus putting Ekiti on the global map as a must-visit destination.

According to him, tourism has the power to immerse people in new experiences, challenge perceptions, and create lasting memories.

He, therefore, urged them to play a key role in making the experiences more memorable for visitors to the state.

The new officials are Dr Abigail Olagbaye, the chairman, and Dayo Olujekun, the vice chairman.

The general secretary is Itunu Ajose, while Adesola Oluwasola is the organising and mobilisation secretary.

Others are Charles Abere, the public relations officer; Dayo Afolabi, the financial secretary, and Dr Dayo Olowookere, the membership and welfare secretary.

The new chairman said the moment was a reaffirmation of commitment to advancing tourism in Ekiti and beyond.

“We stand at the threshold of a new era, where our shared passion for culture, heritage, and sustainable tourism will shape the future of our community and create lasting impact across the state,” said Ms Olagbaye.

The event witnessed a panel discussion on the topic: “Strategies to Unlocking Economic Opportunities of Landlocked Destinations: Expanding the Frontiers of Tourism in Ekiti State”.

 (NAN)