NATOP hails AITEC World Platform, reaffirms drive to showcase Nigeria to global tourism market

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) has commended the African International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC World) for providing a global platform to promote African tourism, reaffirming its commitment to positioning Nigeria as a competitive destination in the international tourism market.

The association said the platform offered Nigeria an important opportunity to showcase its diverse tourism attractions, strengthen international partnerships and attract visitors and investors to the country’s tourism industry.

NATOP President, Mrs Bolaji Mustapha, stated this on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, while delivering a goodwill message at AITEC World’s third global launch during the World Travel Market (WTM) London, United Kingdom.

She described the initiative as a significant platform for expanding Nigeria’s visibility in the global tourism industry and creating opportunities for collaboration among tourism stakeholders across different countries.

“It is a great pleasure to extend warm congratulations to AITEC World on the successful 3rd edition of this laudable event at the World Travel Market. As President of NATOP, I am delighted that this global platform provides another opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s tourism potential, strengthen international partnerships and position our destination for greater visibility,” Mustapha said.

A major highlight of NATOP’s participation was the unveiling of the Nigeria Tourism Passport, an initiative designed to promote the country’s tourism destinations, improve access to destination information and stimulate fresh opportunities for tourism development.

Mustapha described the publication as a strategic marketing and information resource that would introduce international visitors, tour operators and investors to Nigeria’s diverse attractions, including its cultural heritage, natural landscapes, festivals and hospitality offerings.

“We are particularly proud that NATOP is using this occasion to globally launch the Nigeria Tourism Passport. It is a strategic initiative aimed at promoting Nigeria’s tourism destinations, enhancing accessibility and creating new opportunities for tourism growth and collaboration,” she stated.

The NATOP president said the association would continue to leverage international tourism platforms to expand Nigeria’s destination marketing efforts and build strategic relationships capable of attracting more international visitors.

She expressed appreciation to AITEC World for creating the opportunity for Nigerian tourism stakeholders to engage the global industry, while reaffirming NATOP’s readiness to work with international partners to advance the country’s tourism prospects.

“We appreciate AITEC World for providing this platform and look forward to stronger partnerships that will take Nigerian tourism to greater heights. Nigeria is ready for the world, and the world is welcome to explore Nigeria!” she said.

The Nigeria Tourism Passport is expected to serve as a promotional resource for showcasing the country’s tourism offerings to international markets, supporting destination awareness and encouraging greater interest in domestic and inbound tourism.

NATOP, the national umbrella body representing tour operators in Nigeria, promotes professional tour operations, destination marketing and sustainable tourism development through industry partnerships and tourism product development.