By: Manoah Kikekon
LAGOS, Nigeria – In a move poised to reshape West Africa's tourism landscape, the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) has declared its readiness to forge robust international partnerships to promote Nigerian tourism beyond its borders.
The announcement signals a new chapter of strategic collaboration aimed at positioning Nigeria as a premier destination for global travellers and investors alike.
The declaration was made on Wednesday, September 23, 2025, at the prestigious Ghana International Expo and Investment Forum held in Ikeja, Lagos State.
The event, themed "Unlocking Investment Potentials through Intra-Africa Trade and Tourism," served as a strategic platform for key industry leaders to discuss the future of Pan-African tourism cooperation. The ATPN's presence underscored a committed shift from national-focused initiatives to active continental engagement.
Speaking at the forum, Hon. Samson Nunayon Apata, the National Vice President of ATPN for the South West Region, delivered an address brimming with collaborative intent. Extending greetings from the ATPN Board of Trustees led by Alhaji Malan Kabir, Apata commended the Ghana Tourism Authority for the successful launch of the Expo.
"This gathering exemplifies the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and mutual growth that defines our industry," he stated. He emphasized the "vast potential for joint ventures, cultural exchange programs, and tourism infrastructure development between Nigeria and Ghana," highlighting a clear actionable agenda for the partnership.
Looking beyond the immediate forum, Hon. Apata unveiled a key platform for this new international drive: the forthcoming South West International Tourism Expo on December 5th-6th. He positioned the event as a crucial nexus for Nigerian and Ghanaian stakeholders to "collaborate, share ideas, and forge meaningful partnerships."
This expo is anticipated to be a tangible step in showcasing Nigeria's diverse attractions from its vibrant cultural heritage and bustling cities to its pristine natural landscapes to an international audience, directly translating the ATPN's readiness into action.