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By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Kabir M. Malan and Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon |
Kabir M. Malan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), has predicted that the Destination Lagos 2024 Awards will set new standards for tourism excellence as the event picks up steam. Malan also noted that the initiative is well-positioned to spur innovation, improve customer service, and advance sustainability in Lagos State's booming tourism industry.
Speaking to reporters in Abuja on Thursday, Kabir Malan said he was excited about the increasing momentum behind the Destination Lagos Awards 2024 in Lagos, adding that the prestigious awards will undoubtedly set quality standards that will promote the growth of the travel industry nationwide.
According to the ATPN Board chairman, organizations strive to meet set standards in the tourism industry to gain recognition and achieve competitive advantages, informing that winning awards increases brand awareness while attracting new customers just as potential travelers were often influenced by award wins when choosing travel providers.
Kabir Malan commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for creating an atmosphere that supports excellence in tourism, and he also commended Hon. Samson Apata Nunayon, National Vice President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria and the organiser of the Destination Lagos Awards 2024, for his creative approach in designing the awards.
"The Lagos Destinations Awards 2024 represents a significant and commendable initiative, aimed at recognizing and celebrating excellence within the tourism and hospitality sectors in Lagos. Such recognition not only boosts the morale of industry stakeholders but also promotes healthy competition, thereby raising the standards of service delivery across the board.
"Lagos is a vibrant city, rich in culture, history, and opportunities, and it is only fitting that an event of this calibre is dedicated to honouring those who contribute to making it a premier destination. The Awards will undoubtedly play a crucial role in further enhancing the profile of Lagos as a top-tier destination for both domestic and international visitors.
"We, at ATPN, recognize the critical importance of such awards in spotlighting the efforts of tourism professionals and organizations who work tirelessly to elevate the standards of our industry. We are confident that the Lagos Destinations Awards will inspire even greater achievements in the future, further positioning Lagos as a beacon of tourism excellence.
"The Destination Lagos Awards event has our full support and collaboration in promoting this worthy endeavour. It is with great pleasure and honour that I, on behalf of the Board of Trustees of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), endorse the Lagos Destinations Awards and Ojuibile Eko Beauty Pageant 2024. Whether through innovation, sustainability, or exceptional service, each award tells a story of ambition, dedication, and passion that will resonate through the tourism world for years to come," the ATPN Board chairman explained further.
The tourism industry has seen a significant shift in the way awards are given out, with a stronger emphasis now being placed on traveler feedback from surveys and user-generated reviews. Additionally, localised awards have become more well-known as tourists support community-based tourism initiatives and look for unusual, off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Consequently, recognizing organizations that champion diversity, equity, and inclusivity in their workforce and guest experiences has emerged as a key driver of robust customer relationships and loyalty.
By setting benchmarks and shining a spotlight on excellence, these accolades help shape the future of travel, ensuring that it remains vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable. In celebrating leaders who exceed expectations and redefine travel experiences, the Destination Lagos Awards 2024 would remain a beacon of inspiration for the entire industry.