By: Manoah Kikekon
ABEOKUTA, NIGERIA — The South West region is officially setting the pace for Nigeria’s tourism rebirth. At a landmark inaugural meeting held at the iconic June 12 Cultural Centre in Abeokuta, the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), South West Region, took a decisive lead in institutionalizing the industry through a massive membership drive and the official flag-off of the South West International Tourism Expo (SWITEX 2026).
The gathering brought a vibrant energy to the Ogun State capital, transitioning the chapter from virtual coordination to a high-impact physical presence. Tourism operators, government officials, hospitality investors, and cultural advocates converged to outline a roadmap for a professionalized, data-driven tourism ecosystem.
A Data-Driven Era for Regional Tourism
A primary focus of the event was the official launch of the regional membership registration and documentation exercise. While the drive is part of a national ATPN mandate, the South West has established a first-of-its-kind coordinated framework to ensure every practitioner—from tour operators to boat drivers—is accounted for in a comprehensive database.
This initiative aims to create a "collective voice" for policy advocacy and professional development. By formalizing the sector, the ATPN is building the infrastructure necessary to support capacity building and sustainable future planning.
SWITEX 2026: The Gateway to Global Investment
The most anticipated announcement of the day was the commencement of preparations for SWITEX 2026. This regional expo is designed to be the premier platform for showcasing the South West's rich cultural heritage and hospitality assets to an international audience.
Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, the ATPN National Vice President for the South West Region, emphasized that the region is entering a phase of strategic transformation.
“The turnout today is a clear indication that tourism practitioners across the region are ready to embrace a new era of professionalism, collaboration, and strategic growth,” Nunayon stated. “SWITEX 2026 will serve as a major platform for promoting the South West's cultural heritage and investment opportunities to both local and international audiences.”
Powerhouse Collaboration
The meeting featured a "who's who" of industry leadership, underscoring the collaborative nature of the movement. Among the key stakeholders present were:
Key Industry Stakeholders in Attendance are
Mr. Michael Ogunbiyi, Director of Tourism, Ogun State Ministry of Culture, Alhaji Dr. Ganiyu Shekoni Balogun (Tarzan) South West Representative, ATPN National BoT, Dr. Busayo Shoremekun, Chairman, National Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Ogun.
Mrs. Hanifat Saka Chairman, HATMAN, Ogun State Chapter. Ambassador Sola Alamutu, Director of Membership and Community Engagement. Alhaji Dr. Ganiyu Shekoni Balogun Tarzan, commended the regional leadership for setting a commendable pace.
“Sustainable growth in tourism can only be achieved through strong partnerships among stakeholders. We must continue the collaboration between operators, transportation providers, and government institutions to succeed,” Balogun noted.
Honoring Excellence
In a poignant moment of the ceremony, the association formally recognized Mrs. Melutia Ogunremi, the pioneer Chairman of the ATPN Ogun State Chapter and former Permanent Secretary. Her legacy in public service and tourism development was hailed as the foundation upon which the current chapter stands.
The event concluded with a strong sense of momentum. With the registration drive in full swing and the countdown to SWITEX 2026 officially on, the ATPN South West has reaffirmed its commitment to turning Nigeria into a globally competitive tourism destination.