FTAN calls for inauguration of NTDA Board 

The President Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria, FTAN, Dr Aliyu Ajayi Badaki has called on the federal government to inaugurate the board of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, NTDA, to enable the Authority run smoothly.

Badaki, who stated this during a courtesy visit by the newly inaugurated Executive Council of FTAN to NTDA in its Abuja office, noted that without the board the management may not function efficiently. The Federation’s team was received by NTDA management team led by its Acting Director General, Richard Ovie Esewhaye.

He pledged the support of the Federation in collaborating with NTDA in achieving its mandate.

FTAN President also called for clarity in the implementation of the NTDA Act to avoid unnecessary rancour. He promised to support and proffer advice if needed to move the industry forward.

Badaki informed the Acting DG of NTDA that the Federation under his leadership is desirous of making it impact felt in the industry with its Tourism Transformation Mandate, TTM, which is the focal point of his leadership. The President also called for the financial support of the Authority in carrying out some of its programmes.

Badaki informed the Ag. DG about the need for the country to participate in this year’s World Travel Market, WTM, holding in London later in the year, as the private sector operators have been holding the fort for the country in the past years following the absence of NTDA and the Ministry of Tourism in leading the charge.

 

In his response, Esewhaye said NTDA will work with FTAN in developing and growing the industry. He noted that the time has come to diversify the economy into tourism and not relying solely on oil.

He said NTDA will form alliance with FTAN in working harmoniously to move the industry forward.

Esewhaye stated that NTDA needs the inauguration of its board to function better.

On the implementation of the NTDA Act and areas of overlap with the NIHOTOUR Act, he pointed out that the Authority is being careful having gotten the Supreme Court ruling on the matter before.

He said NTDA is looking forward to participating at this year’s WTM in London.

Esewhaye lamented that NTDA is constrained by the issue of funding in carrying out some of its programmes.

While congratulating Badaki and his team on its rancour free electron, he stressed the need for NTDA to work together FTAN.