NANTA Polls: Folami returns unopposed as Mustapha, Adesokan win big

Maureen Aguta

Yinka Folami has been returned unopposed as President of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA), securing another two-year mandate in a development that underscores growing confidence in his leadership of the country’s premier travel trade body.

The election, held at the Conference Hall of the University of Ibadan, drew delegates from across Nigeria and combined both consensus-driven outcomes and fiercely contested races—reflecting a blend of stability and democratic vitality within the association.

While Folami’s re-election was uncontested, the battle for other key positions proved highly competitive. In one of the most closely watched contests, Mohammed Mustapha of the northern zone emerged as First Deputy National Vice President, polling 216 votes to defeat Pastor Chinyere Umeasiegbu, who secured 146 votes.

A similarly keen contest played out in the race for National Public Relations Officer, where Babatunde Adesokan clinched victory with 210 votes, overcoming Gideon Oludayo, who garnered 150 votes. Adesokan’s win marks a significant step up from his previous role as Immediate Vice President for the South West Zone.

Several other offices were filled unopposed, including that of Financial Secretary, taken by Kunle Oluwole, while the position of Internal Auditor, currently held by Johnson Ugochukwu, was not up for election.

The outcome of the polls is widely seen as reinforcing NANTA’s leadership structure at a critical time for Nigeria’s travel and tourism sector. With shifting global travel dynamics and persistent domestic economic pressures, the association is expected to play an increasingly pivotal role in policy advocacy, industry regulation, and professional development.

Folami’s renewed mandate is likely to focus on consolidating reforms, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and positioning Nigerian travel agencies to better compete in an evolving global marketplace.