Bv: Manoah Kikekon
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| Samson Apata and Bola Tinubu |
ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Tourism Vanguard for Tinubu (TVT) has formally unveiled its 36 State Coordinators. The move is designed to consolidate grassroots support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid while positioning the tourism sector as a pillar of the "Renewed Hope" Agenda.
In a statement released on Monday by the National Coordinator, Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, the group revealed that the selection process was a rigorous exercise aimed at bringing together seasoned professionals to drive national advocacy.
The newly appointed coordinators are not merely political figures; they represent a distinguished pool of expertise from both the public and private sectors. The roster includes serving and retired State Permanent Secretaries, Directors-General of parastatals, and reputable private sector leaders.
"With the successful unveiling of the 36 State Coordinators, the entire structure of the TVT is now more strategic, more cohesive, and significantly stronger," Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon disclosed. "This development enhances our operational efficiency and deepens the movement’s capacity to drive its mandate across every corner of the Federation."
The coordinators are tasked with acting as "strategic ambassadors," responsible for bridging the gap between government policy and grassroots awareness regarding cultural diplomacy and economic diversification.
A significant highlight of the announcement was the endorsement of the movement by the Honorable Minister for Culture, Tourism, Arts, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa. In recognition of her efforts to reposition Nigeria’s cultural assets, she has graciously accepted the role of National Matron of the TVT.
The TVT also honoured Cardinal James Omolaja Odunmbaku, a renowned religious and political leader, by appointing him as the National Patron. His two decades of promoting religious tourism are expected to provide the movement with a strong moral and cultural foundation.
The TVT unveiled a "Who's Who" of regional leadership to head state chapters. Notable coordinators include: Princess Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila (Lagos State) Amb. Akpekwu Christopher Imbufe (Rivers State), Sir Rustom Alexander (Akwa Ibom State), Dr. Blessing Anam (Cross River State), Engr. Akintunde Elisha Ejigbile (Oyo State), and Suleiman Samaila Nabame (Kebbi State)
Other key appointments span across states such as Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Ekiti, and Delta, ensuring a truly national reach for the advocacy group.
The National Central Working Council (NCWC) reiterated that the TVT's mission is to align tourism advocacy with national development communication. By showcasing the achievements of the Tinubu administration in the creative industry and tourism sector, the group aims to ensure stability and inclusive growth heading into the next election cycle.
"This is a deliberate effort to reinforce grassroots mobilisation for continuity and stability," the statement read. "We have full confidence in our coordinators to discharge their duties with integrity and dedication to national service."