Yaba College of Technology has been named the best tourism tertiary institution in the South-West at the 2025 Southwest International Tourism Expo in Ikeja.

A statement on Thursday by Adekunle Adams of the Centre for Communication, Information, and Public Relations said the award honoured the institution’s cultural performance, creativity, craftsmanship, and exhibition excellence.

It noted that students of Tourism Management Technology showcased outstanding work that impressed judges and visitors throughout the expo.

Samson Apata, vice-president of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria, praised Yabatech for standing out among nearly 15 institutions from Nigeria and Ghana at the event.

He said the exhibition stand, designed entirely by students, drew the attention of visitors who doubted that such detailed work could come from undergraduates.

“Good work announces itself. The students showed superior creativity, technical skill, discipline, and commitment during the exhibitions,” he said.

Mr Apata stressed that the judges were independent and unknown to participants, making Yabatech’s win “transparent, credible, and well deserved”. He added that the plaque was presented separately to avoid any impression of favouritism, describing the award as fully earned.

While presenting the plaque, he congratulated the rector, staff, and students, noting that their teamwork and dedication had driven the institution’s success.

Its rector, Ibraheem Abdul, thanked ATPN for recognising the institution’s commitment to cultural innovation and academic excellence. He said the honour affirms the institution’s dedication to quality training, adding, “This achievement is a reminder that people are watching.”

Mr Abdul praised the students for representing the institution well, noting that their discipline and teamwork reflect Yabatech’s values. He said the award encourages the College to keep improving academic standards and expanding industry partnerships that support practical learning.

The expo featured institutions from Lagos, Ekiti, Oyo, and Ghana. 

(NAN)