FTAN unveils new Akwa Ibom leadership, sets agenda for stronger public private participation in tourism
Maureen Aguta
The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, has inaugurated a new State Executive Council with a renewed commitment to deepening tourism development, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and fostering stronger public-private sector collaboration in the state.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Uyo, attracted key operators across the tourism, hospitality, travel, culture, and entertainment industries, alongside representatives of government agencies and tourism institutions.
Speaking during the event, FTAN South-South Vice President and Zonal Coordinator, Mrs. Faith Esohe Essien, charged the newly inaugurated executives to provide purposeful and visionary leadership capable of advancing the interests of private sector operators while building strategic partnerships with government and development institutions.
Essien described tourism as one of Nigeria’s most viable sectors for economic diversification, job creation, cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and investment attraction, stressing that the industry can only attain its full potential through coordinated action and sustained collaboration among stakeholders.
She commended the Akwa Ibom State Government for its sustained support for tourism development and praised the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, led by Commissioner Dr. Anieti Udofia, as well as the Akwa Ibom State Hotels and Tourism Board chaired by Mrs. Ime Udo, for their contributions toward improving the visibility and growth of the sector.
According to her, the inauguration represents far more than a routine leadership transition, noting that it offers a fresh opportunity for tourism practitioners, policymakers, investors, and promoters to work together deliberately in positioning Akwa Ibom as a leading destination for culture, leisure, business, and investment tourism.
“The task before the new executives is to unite stakeholders, strengthen advocacy, and create innovative pathways that will attract investment and expand opportunities within the tourism value chain,” she said.
The newly inaugurated executive council is expected to champion initiatives aimed at destination development, capacity building, tourism advocacy, investment promotion, and enhanced engagement with both local and international tourism stakeholders.
Industry stakeholders at the event expressed optimism that the new leadership would help strengthen the voice of the private sector and drive policies capable of unlocking the vast tourism potential of Akwa Ibom State.
With the inauguration completed, FTAN Akwa Ibom begins a new phase focused on collaboration, innovation, and sustainable tourism development aimed at boosting economic growth and creating opportunities for communities and industry operators across the state.