By Okorie Uguru
Two major tourism associations in Nigeria, the Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN), the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), as well as the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), have endorsed the first Travelpreneur Conference, known as TravConExpo, set to take place in Lagos in September.
In letters of confirmation, the leaders of the bodies praised the convener’s efforts to highlight important opportunities within Nigeria’s travel and tourism industry.
Abdullahi Shettima, Director-General of ITPN said: “We have reviewed the details of TravConExpo 2025, including its theme, ‘Innovating the Future of Travel: Empowering Entrepreneurs in a New Era,’ and its focus on fostering B2B and G2B opportunities within Nigeria’s travel and tourism sector.
“We recognise the potential of this event to serve as a valuable platform for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among travel entrepreneurs, agencies, and enthusiasts.”
NANTA expressed enthusiasm for the event and promised to support its success. Yinka Folami, President of NANTA, stated: “We see TravConExpo as a thoughtful initiative aimed at enhancing innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as fostering meaningful engagement within the travel and tourism space.
Folami added: “We appreciate the commitment to curating conversations and partnerships that can drive sustainable innovation and therefore offer our goodwill and support to the prime mover—Mr. Oludayo Gideon Taiwo, a dedicated member of NANTA.
“We are confident in the overall success of the event scheduled for September 19th–20th, 2025, and in the sustainability of this forward-thinking vision.”
FTAN President, Ikereuwem Onung also expressed support for the MICE event. Onung stated: “FTAN recognises the important role of TravConExpo in building Nigeria’s travel and tourism industry through entrepreneurship, innovation, and strategic industry partnerships.
“The theme ‘Innovating the Future of Travel: Empowering Entrepreneurs in a New Era’ aligns with FTAN’s passion for capacity development, digitalization, and inclusive growth in the tourism industry’s value chain.
“FTAN is privileged to be part of this endeavour and looks forward to working with your organization to ensure the success of TravConExpo 2025.”
Speaking on the endorsement, Dr. Oludayo Taiwo Gideon, the convener of the event and Group Chief Executive Officer of Aeroport Group, expressed his gratitude to the private sector bodies for their support.

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