Nigeria Calls for Stronger Intra-African Travel Networks to Boost Domestic Tourism
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad (MFR, MIN), has called for a renewed focus on domestic tourism across Africa, describing it as the bedrock for building a sustainable and inclusive tourism industry.
Delivering the keynote address at the 21st edition of the Akwaaba African Travel Market, held at Eko Hotels Convention Centre in Lagos, Dr. Muhammad highlighted the critical role Akwaaba has played in shaping Africa’s tourism landscape over the past two decades.
“It is a great honour and privilege to deliver this keynote address at the foremost tourism expo in West Africa, and one of the most influential platforms for African and global travel stakeholders,” he said, welcoming exhibitors and participants from over 20 countries.
According to him, Akwaaba has transcended being just a tourism exhibition, becoming a continental hub for ideas, innovation, and collaboration.
With specialised segments such as the Africa Food Fair, Medical Tourism showcase, Youth Tourism Conference, Africa Travel 100 Awards, and a wide array of exhibitions, the expo has consistently positioned Africa as a compelling destination for both leisure and business.
The Permanent Secretary commended the organisers for sustaining the initiative, which has drawn world leaders, industry pioneers, international organisations, and millions of visitors over the years, describing it as “a true success story of African tourism.”
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Domestic Tourism in Africa”, Dr. Muhammad noted that encouraging Africans to explore their cultural heritage, landscapes, cuisines, festivals, and creative expressions is key to building national pride, creating jobs, and stimulating inclusive growth.
“In Nigeria, the Ministry has prioritised domestic tourism as a driver of national development,” he explained. “We are advancing initiatives to promote community-based tourism, upgrade tourism infrastructure, strengthen creative industry linkages, and encourage private-sector partnerships. Likewise, the Ministry is reviewing the National Tourism Policy, and I urge stakeholders to contribute to this review.”
With over 200 ethnic groups and an abundance of natural and cultural attractions, Nigeria, he said, is well positioned to spearhead Africa’s domestic tourism renaissance.
This year, Nigeria is showcasing its cultural and creative assets through exhibitions, presentations, and networking sessions at Akwaaba. Dr. Muhammad emphasised the country’s readiness to forge new partnerships in tourism investment, cultural exchange, aviation, hospitality, technology, and youth development.
“Akwaaba is the perfect platform to deepen such collaborations,” he remarked, adding that Nigeria’s diverse heritage makes it “not just a destination, but an experience.”
Looking ahead, the Permanent Secretary underscored the need for collective action to strengthen Africa’s tourism sector. He outlined key priorities including building stronger intra-African travel networks, reducing barriers to movement, investing in youth, embracing technology, deepening public-private partnerships, and amplifying Africa’s narrative on the global stage.
“The future of African tourism depends on us,” he urged. “We must tell Africa’s own story to the world confidently and proudly.”
Dr. Muhammad reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working with Akwaaba, African partners, and the global travel community to develop a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous tourism industry.
