ATPN Lagos Celebrates World Tourism Day 2026 Ahead Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), Lagos State Chapter, has officially joined the global community in commemorating World Tourism Day 2026. The celebration serves as a powerful precursor to the chapter's highly anticipated flagship event, the Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta 2026.

The announcement was made public on Sunday by the Chairperson of ATPN Lagos State Chapter, Alhaja Mrs. Olabisi Kamar-Azeez.

Speaking on the significance of this year’s global celebration, Chairperson Kamar-Azeez highlighted that the theme "Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism" challenges stakeholders to think boldly about the future trajectory of the sector. She noted that cutting-edge digital tools and artificial intelligence offer travelers seamless ways to discover Lagos, empower local micro-enterprises, and optimize the accessibility of tourism services.

However, she emphasized that technology remains a mere tool, pointing out that the true heartbeat of Lagos tourism lies intrinsically within its people, rich heritage, diverse cultures, and legendary hospitality.

“From our historic landmarks and creative communities to our food, festivals and waterfronts, Lagos has stories worth sharing with the world. As practitioners, we must embrace innovation while creating opportunities for the people and businesses that bring those stories to life,” Kamar-Azeez stated.

Extending her goodwill message across the state, she added: "On behalf of ATPN Lagos State Chapter, I celebrate everyone working to make Lagos a welcoming and memorable destination. Happy World Tourism Day!"

Building on the momentum of World Tourism Day, the ATPN Lagos Chairperson formally shifted focus to the upcoming Eko Sports Tourism Fiesta 2026, slated to hold on November 26 and 27, 2026, at the iconic Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, Lagos State.

The two-day mega event is designed to bring together key players, experts, and enthusiasts across the sports, tourism, and culture sectors, drawing massive participation from within Lagos State and beyond.

Organizers have underscored that the fiesta will serve as an invaluable convergence zone for tourism investors, business executives, and sport-tourism lovers. Stakeholders looking to expand their network, forge strategic partnerships, and unlock new market segments have been urged not to miss out on the landmark gathering.

Muslim Group Slams Nigerian Government Over Palestine Omission at UNGA Speech

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) Nigeria has strongly criticized the Federal Government for omitting any reference to Palestine in its official address at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

In a statement signed by its Executive Chairman, Disu Kamor, the advocacy group expressed disappointment that while Nigeria's 24-paragraph address touched heavily on global issues including UN Security Council reforms, climate finance, artificial intelligence, and counter-terrorism in the Sahel it completely sidelined the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the Palestinian struggle.

MPAC highlighted that this year's silence marks a sharp contrast to Nigeria's address at the 80th UN General Assembly, where the country explicitly condemned violence against civilians in Gaza and threw its weight behind a two-state solution.

“Gaza not mentioned. The Palestinian people not mentioned. The two-state solution – the very phrase Nigeria used ‘without stuttering and without doubt’ twelve months ago – not mentioned once,” the group stated.

The organization linked the sudden omission to strengthening diplomatic and security alignments between Abuja and Tel Aviv since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.

MPAC pointed to several diplomatic milestones, including,  The signing of a bilateral Security Cooperation Agreement between Nigeria and Israel in August 2025. Expanding discussions surrounding intelligence sharing, surveillance tech acquisition, and counter-terrorism training.

Proposed frameworks for a Nigeria-Israel Joint Commission spanning health, technology, and economic cooperation. Given these developments, the Islamic body questioned whether Nigeria's diplomatic silence on the Palestinian issue was a direct consequence of its deepening strategic partnership with Israel.

Calling on the Federal Government to clear the air, MPAC insisted that if Nigeria’s foreign policy stance on the Middle East conflict has indeed shifted, citizens deserve a transparent explanation.

The group further urged the Nigerian government to take bolder steps by publicly backing the Palestinian people, supporting South Africa's ongoing genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), and making all bilateral security pacts conditional upon international human rights accountability.

“Palestine has not disappeared. Gaza has not disappeared. The suffering has not disappeared,” MPAC concluded.

ATPN South West VP Apata Calls for AI-Powered Tourism Transformation

 By: Manoah Kikekon

ATPN South West 

Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, The National Vice President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) for the South West Region,  in commemoration of World Tourism Day 2026, has made a passionate appeal for a decisive industry shift toward digital innovation and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Centering his message on this year's global theme, “Digital Agenda & Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” Hon. Apata emphasized that emerging technologies present a historic window to redefine destination management, enhance operational efficiency, and unlock unprecedented economic potential across Nigeria and the broader African continent.

Speaking on the significance of the 2026 celebration, Hon. Apata noted that digital transformation is no longer an optional luxury for tourism stakeholders, but an absolute necessity for survival and global competitiveness. From automated online bookings and digital transactions to intelligent destination marketing, technology continues to reshape how modern travellers interact with the world.

“Tourism is entering a new era in which digital intelligence will increasingly define how destinations compete, how businesses grow and how travellers experience the world. We must not merely observe this transformation; we must actively participate in shaping it,” Hon. Apata stated.

He further challenged governments, private sector operators, and destination managers to formulate robust digital strategies that seamlessly integrate emerging technological frameworks into everyday tourism planning and service delivery.

Highlighting AI as the core frontier of modern innovation, the ATPN chief pointed out multiple ways smart systems can optimize the tourism value chain. According to him, intelligent solutions can significantly improve: Smart Destination Management: Utilizing real-time data to track visitor patterns, mitigate overcrowding, and optimize infrastructural planning.

Personalized Visitor Experiences: Providing travellers with customized itineraries, multilingual translation tools, and accessible destination data.

Enhanced Productivity: Streamlining enterprise operations, automated reservations, and customer communications for small and medium-sized tourism businesses (SMTEs).

Strategic Market Research: Utilizing advanced analytics to forecast travel trends, target international demographics, and guide investor decisions.

Despite these immense advantages, Hon. Apata cautioned that technological integration must be balanced with responsible data governance, strict cybersecurity, and human oversight.

“Artificial Intelligence should enhance human creativity, professionalism and hospitality, not diminish them. The essence of tourism remains human connection, cultural discovery and memorable experiences. Technology must serve these values,” he added.

Addressing the digital disparities across global markets, the South West Vice President called for deliberate investments in digital literacy, affordable broadband connectivity, and technical training for rural operators and grassroots tourism assets. He stressed that an inclusive digital agenda must protect emerging economies from falling further behind established global hubs.

Focusing on Nigeria and Africa, Hon. Apata expressed strong optimism that digital storytelling, intelligent branding, and online distribution networks can project the continent's rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes onto the global map. 

He urged regional leaders, tech innovators, and academic institutions to forge strategic partnerships that align local realities with international standards.

Badagry Indigenes in Diaspora Celebrates UK-Based Architect, Dr. Ebenezer Godoyon Wusu

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Dr. Ebenezer Godoyon Wusu 

Badagry indigenes across the globe recently celebrated the remarkable academic achievement of Arc. (Dr.) Ebenezer Godoyon Wusu, an accomplished architect based in the United Kingdom, in grand style.

This development was disclosed in a statement released to News Peddlers on Sunday by Nunayon Oluwatosin Samuel M.IIRSM, a Badagry native living in the diaspora.

The statement read: “The Badagry-born Nigerian architect, researcher, and built-environment expert, Arc. (Dr.) Ebenezer Godoyon Wusu, popularly known and referred to as 'Papa', has been awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) by the Hertfordshire Business School, University of Hertfordshire, United Kingdom.”

Mr. Bidemi Ahisu-Kuton, A healthcare professional in the United Kingdom who represented Badagry indigenes in the diaspora, at the occasion, stated that the feat serves as an encouragement to every Badagrian worldwide. 

Dr. Ebenezer Godoyon Wusu and Mr. Bidemi Ahisu-Kuton 

He added that Papa has raised the bar and set a new benchmark for the next generation of the Badagry community.

Sharing his personal perspective, Dr. E. Dansu, a mathematics scholar and academic researcher at Tohoku University, said: “Senior Papa was exceptionally brilliant. I greatly admired him as the assistant senior prefect of Badagry Grammar School back then. He mentored so many of us, and I am proud of his success. I congratulate him and look forward to productive academic collaborations, especially for Badagry's growth and Nigeria's development.”

Similarly, Mr. Stephen Josu, a professional engineer in North Carolina, United States, wrote, “Congratulations to you, Dr. Arch. E.G. Wusu. You are bro Papa to us, and we will still call you oooo. Our day-one mentor (Iwe factorial). You are so exceptional academically, spiritually, morally, etc.—and virtually all the parents in the locality wanted to send their wards to LAUTECH (me included). Papilo, we knew one day you would make us proud. But you know why I chose Electrical Engineering and not Architecture (our little secret)!”

Dr. Wusu’s doctoral research, titled “An Artificial Intelligence Approach to Establishing Critical Factors Influencing Offsite Construction Adoption in the United Kingdom,” explored how artificial intelligence and machine-learning techniques can support decision-making and accelerate innovation in the construction industry.

A graduate of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) and holder of a Master of Environmental Design in Architecture from the University of Lagos, Dr. Wusu combines academic excellence with extensive professional experience. 

In 2017, he emerged as the Overall Best Candidate in the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) Professional Practice Examination, a prestigious recognition of his competence and leadership potential.

Dr. Ebenezer Godoyon Wusu and his Family 

Over the course of his career, he has been directly involved in nearly 1,000 construction projects. Notable developments to his credit include Greystone Tower in Victoria Island, Landmark Towers in Oniru, the former Access Bank Head Office in Lagos, and the Nigerian Army Home Ownership Scheme in Abuja.

Beyond professional practice, Dr. Wusu has built a growing international research profile comprising 20 academic publications, including journal articles, conference papers, and his doctoral thesis. 

He has also contributed to the successful delivery of funded projects worth over £2 million and US$2.1 million, alongside receiving invitations to speak at conferences, seminars, and workshops worldwide.

Colleagues, family members, and well-wishers have described his achievement as a testament to dedication, resilience, and innovation, noting his unique ability to bridge architecture, sustainability, and emerging technologies for the advancement of the construction sector.

Engineer Nunayon Oluwatosin Samuel, an occupational health and safety professional and international risk management expert based in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, remarked, “Papa is a big brother from another mother.

Engineer Nunayon Oluwatosin Samuel M.IIRSM 

"As he celebrates this significant milestone, Dr Wusu’s accomplishment stands as an inspiration to aspiring architects, researchers, and professionals across Badagry and beyond. I congratulate him on this remarkable achievement and his continued contributions to professional practice, research, and innovation in the built environment.” Samuel added.

Lagos ATPN Calls for Vendors and Exhibitors, Registration Ahead Sports Tourism Fiesta

By: Manoah Kikekon 

The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter, invites businesses, entrepreneurs, SMEs, and corporate organisations to participate as vendors and exhibitors at the maiden edition of the EKO Sports Tourism Fiesta 2026.

The Vendors Package, themed Compete. Connect. Celebrate, the Sports Tourism Fiesta 2025 is scheduled to take place from 26th to 27th November 2026 at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos State.

Mr. Alaketu Sulaimon Abiodun, The Chairman, Central Working Committee/Corporate Relations and Government Engagement Committee said, This landmark two-day event will bring together tourism professionals, athletes, government representatives, corporate organisations, students, hospitality businesses, youth groups, media organisations, and members of the public.

Exhibiting offers a unique opportunity to showcase and sell your products, connect directly with potential customers, generate quality business leads, conduct product demonstrations and sampling, build valuable industry relationships, increase your brand and media visibility, and access key tourism, hospitality, sports, and corporate audiences.

Exhibition Packages

Basic Package (₦50,000): Covers one decorated table, one chair, one vendor representative pass, a business listing, and two-day exhibition access.

Standard Package (₦100,000): Covers a prominent exhibition location, one decorated table, two chairs, two representative passes, your logo on selected publicity materials, a business listing, and two-day exhibition access.

Premium Package (₦300,000): Covers a prime exhibition location, premium branded exhibition space, one decorated table and two chairs, three representative passes, your logo on selected publicity materials and the event media backdrop, a social media brand feature, a media interview opportunity, an event brochure or programme mention, VIP access for one representative, and two-day exhibition access.

Eligible Business Categorie

Eligible categories include travel and tourism, hotels and hospitality, food and beverages, sports, fitness and wellness, technology and telecommunications, banking, fintech and insurance, fashion, beauty and lifestyle, arts, crafts and souvenirs, logistics and transportation, education and training, media and entertainment, as well as SMEs and start-ups.

Spaces are limited, and applications will be treated on a first-approved, first-confirmed basis. Register HERE.

Enquiries/WhatsApp: +234 810 588 7147  

Email: [email protected]

Olusegun Odunitan Family to Unveil DOO Foundation in Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Pastor David Olusegun Odunitan and DOO Foundation 

Family, friends, and well-wishers to gather on September 26, 2026 in Ikoga, Badagry, Lagos State, for the official launch of the DOO Foundation, established in loving memory of the late Pastor David Olusegun Odunitan. To mark a profound transformation, turning a date once defined by grief into a beacon of hope and community empowerment.

The initiative was officially announced by Susan Odunitan, the daughter of the late cleric, in a heartfelt post on her official Facebook page. Sharing the vision with both biological and adopted children of the late pastor, Susan expressed overwhelming gratitude for the collective support received to bring the team to life.

Reflecting on the significance of the date, Susan noted how the family chose to redefine the anniversary of their patriarch's passing.

“This date holds a very special meaning. It marks 12 years since we laid my father to rest. But this year, we are turning a date that once represented sorrow and remembrance into a day of hope, impact and new beginnings. A day where his legacy continues not just through memories, but through lives,” she shared.

Pastor David Olusegun Odunitan is fondly remembered by many as a dedicated primary school teacher in Erekiti and a revered Deeper Life Bible Church pastor in Iragon before he passed,  alongside his role as a loving father to four daughters. Throughout his lifetime, he championed values that now form the bedrock of the newly launched non-profit.

“He strongly believed in quality education and gender equality, values that have become part of the foundation of DOO Foundation,” Susan noted.

Susan emphasised that the DOO Foundation was born out of a core conviction to uplift the marginalised and underserved. The organisation aims to tackle pressing societal challenges through structured intervention pillars.

“DOO Foundation was born from a simple conviction: Every child, young person and vulnerable individual deserves an opportunity to live with dignity, discover purpose and build a meaningful future,” Susan added.

Through targeted initiatives spanning education, skills development, rescue and rehabilitation support, humanitarian relief, and sustainable poverty alleviation, the foundation seeks to empower women, youths, and vulnerable children. 

Police Busts Another Badagry Fake Drink Factory in Days, Nab 48-Year-Old Suspect

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Just days after security operatives uncovered an illegal juice manufacturing ring, the battle against counterfeit goods in Lagos State has recorded another breakthrough. Operatives from the Badagry Police Division have busted a clandestine brewery operating out of the Iyafin community, dealing a fresh blow to illicit manufacturing networks in the area.

The Wednesday night raid, spearheaded by the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Jude Nwokolo, led to the apprehension of 48-year-old Emeka Anieba. The suspect, originally from Anambra State, was picked up at the scene over his alleged involvement in brewing and packaging unauthorized "Flamigo" alcoholic beverages without standard regulatory oversight.

Acting on reliable intelligence regarding suspicious manufacturing activities, the police swooped on the location, seizing a cache of equipment and raw materials utilized for churning out the fake drinks.

This latest crackdown has heightened public anxiety regarding the proliferation of unregistered and potentially harmful beverages flooding local markets in Badagry. Health and safety advocates continue to raise red flags over the dangers these substandard products pose to unsuspecting consumers.

Authorities confirmed that the suspect is currently being held in police custody as comprehensive investigations unfold to trace the full distribution network behind the illegal factory. Further updates are anticipated as police widen their probe.