In a strategic move to unlock Nigeria’s vast tourism potential, the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) have agreed to revive dedicated tourism information desks at major airports across the country.
The decision was announced during a courtesy visit by the Director-General of NTDA, Dr. Olayiwola Awakan, to the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, at FAAN headquarters in Lagos.
Dr. Awakan emphasised that airports serve as the first and most critical point of contact for international visitors, making them vital gateways to Nigeria’s tourism experience.
“Tourism is about movement, and FAAN plays a huge role in that because for anyone coming into the country, airports are their first point of contact,” he said.
He described Nigeria as “sitting on a gold mine” of tourism opportunities across all regions, ranging from cultural heritage and natural landscapes to eco-tourism and adventure destinations. According to him, repositioning Nigeria as a world-class tourism destination will require a powerful blend of compelling storytelling, credible data, and seamless travel experiences.
A key outcome of the meeting was Dr. Awakan’s call for the reinstatement of tourism information desks at airports. The desks are expected to provide arriving passengers with immediate access to travel guides, maps, attraction highlights, and information on local transportation and accommodation options.
In her response, Mrs. Kuku welcomed the renewed partnership, describing aviation and tourism as “naturally interconnected.” She praised Dr. Awakan for his long-standing support and reaffirmed FAAN’s readiness to work closely with NTDA to enhance passenger experience, improve airport infrastructure, and stimulate growth in both domestic and international tourist arrivals.
To drive implementation, both agencies agreed to establish a joint committee to coordinate data sharing and oversee collaborative initiatives between NTDA and FAAN.
The renewed focus on airport-based tourism support is expected to create a more welcoming first impression for visitors and help showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural and natural diversity from the moment they arrive in the country.
