The Nigerian tourism sector celebrated its leading lights at a major event in the nation's capital. The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) presented its coveted Tourism Icon awards during the eighth Nigeria Investors Forum and Exhibition (NTIFE) 2025, held recently in Abuja. The ceremony recognised individuals and organisations for their exceptional dedication to advancing the industry.
Governor and Minister Lead List of Honourees
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State was named the Best Tourism Governor for the Year 2025, earning a Tourism Icon award. The governor's commitment to developing his state's tourism potential was acknowledged, with Dr Kabir Ali Masanawa, Director General of the Katsina State History and Culture Bureau, accepting the honour on his behalf.
Similarly, Hannatu Musa Musawa, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, was bestowed with a Tourism Icon Award. FTAN recognised her significant contributions and steadfast leadership in navigating the sector's challenges. The Minister was represented by Olayiwola Awakan, the Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA).
Other Awardees and Ceremony Highlights
The prestigious honour roll extended to several other key players in the tourism and hospitality landscape. The awards celebrated excellence across various facets of the industry.
The distinguished recipients included:
- Eko Hotel & Suites – Recognised as a Pioneer in Hospitality Innovation.
- Lolo Ngozi Ngoka – Received an Award of Excellence for Tourism Policy Drive.
- Mr Edosa Eghobamien – Honoured with the Hospitality Innovation Award.
- TVC News – Awarded for Tourism Promotion.
- Mohammed Jammal – Received the Excellence in Recreation and Leisure Award.
The Gala and Tourism Icon Award Nite also featured a significant leadership transition within FTAN. Dr Aliyu Badaki, who was elected as the federation's National President during its yearly General Meeting on July 30, 2025, was formally invested into office. Senator Smart Adeyemi performed the investiture ceremony, congratulating Badaki and urging him to deliver effectively on his mandate.
A Boost for Nigerian Tourism
The NTIFE 2025 forum and its accompanying awards ceremony underscore a concerted effort to highlight and reward excellence within Nigeria's tourism sector. By honouring leaders from government and private enterprises, FTAN aims to inspire greater investment and innovation. The recognition of Governor Radda and Minister Musawa at the highest level signals the growing importance of tourism as a key pillar for economic and cultural development in Nigeria.
