Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) South West has pledged a new dawn for the development and promotion of tourism in the region, with a commitment to form strategic alliances with state governments and other stakeholders across the cultural tourism and creative industry value chain. This came to the fore at the meeting with Ogun State Deputy Government by ATPN team led by its National President…..
The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) South West is set for a new dawn in the sector as it sets sight on devising new strategies based on collaboration, visionary leadership, and a unified approach to the development and promotion of the region’s cultural tourism and creative industry.
This formed the crux of deliberation by a team of the association led by its National President, Prince Oluwafemi Adetunji Fadina, with the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele. The focus of the session was on a transformative partnership between ATPN and the Ogun State government.
According to ATPN in a press statement, ‘‘the meeting underscored a shared commitment to harnessing Ogun State’s tourism potential as a key driver of economic growth, cultural preservation, and community empowerment.’’
It noted that the deputy governor warmly welcomed the ATPN delegation, acknowledging the vital role of tourism in job creation, revenue generation, and global visibility for the state. She also pledged state’s readiness to collaborate with ATPN, ensuring that tourism development aligns with the administration’s broader economic agenda.
Excerpts of the press statement disclosed some of the broader issues tabled at the session:
A Unified Voice for South-West Tourism
Fadina stressed the urgency of a South-West coalition to harmonise tourism policies, attract investment, and create a seamless experience for visitors across the region. He stressed that by speaking with one voice, stakeholders can amplify their impact, unlock new opportunities, and position the region as Nigeria’s premier tourism hub.
“In the South-West, we have everything—history, culture, heritage, ecotourism, religious tourism, and a thriving creative economy. What we need now is a coordinated strategy that brings everyone to the table: state governments, private sector players, community leaders, and international partners. Tourism is an economic asset, and we must activate its full potential.’’
Strategic Engagement with DAWN Commission
A key pillar of this initiative is the engagement with the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission to drive local government participation in tourism.
Recognising that sustainable tourism begins at the grassroots, ATPN will work with DAWN and key stakeholders to ensure each local government area actively contributes to tourism development, infrastructure improvement, and cultural preservation.
“For tourism to thrive, every local government must be actively involved—identifying their unique attractions, creating enabling environments for tourism businesses, and ensuring that both residents and visitors benefit from tourism-driven economic growth,’’
Next Steps: Action and Impact
This engagement marks the beginning of a new era for South-West tourism. ATPN, under Prince Fadina’s leadership, will immediately activate:
A South-West Tourism Coalition, bringing together government agencies, industry professionals, and investors.
Local Government Engagement Framework, in partnership with DAWN Commission, to deepen tourism participation at the grassroots.
Strategic Investments in Tourism Infrastructure, ensuring that the region becomes a preferred destination for both local and international tourists.
With the Ogun State Government’s commitment and ATPN’s strategic vision, a brighter future for South-West tourism is within reach. This is more than just a conversation – it is a movement to unleash the full potential of tourism as a powerful engine of economic transformation.
The future of ATPN starts now, and together, we are raising the bar.
