The Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) has unveiled its first National Secretariat in Lagos, marking a significant milestone in the Association’s history and strengthening its commitment to developing Nigeria’s tourism industry.
The unveiling comes ahead of NATOP’s 10th Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled to hold from July 8 to July 12, 2026.
Located at 13 Osho Street, Opebi Link Bridge, Ikeja, the new facility will serve as the Association’s operational headquarters. It features workstations, private meeting rooms, a conference hall and a tourism experience centre designed to support business, networking and tourism promotion.
A Major Milestone for NATOP
Speaking during the commissioning, NATOP President, Hajia Bolaji Mustapha, described the secretariat as the Association’s first permanent office since its establishment.
According to her, the headquarters represents a new beginning for NATOP and will make the Association more visible and accessible to members, government agencies and industry stakeholders.
“This is the first time in history that NATOP is having a secretariat. The essence is for us to be visible so that they know where to locate us. We need a location, and I pray that by the grace of God we will have our own permanent site, but this is the beginning,” she said.
She explained that the facility would not only serve as NATOP’s administrative office but also provide members with workspaces, meeting rooms and conference facilities.
Mustapha added that the headquarters would generate revenue for the Association while promoting tourism through its integrated experience centre.
Headquarters to Promote Professionalism
The NATOP President said the new headquarters would also help eliminate quackery in the tour operating business.
She noted that the Association would continue to promote professional standards by encouraging operators to undergo proper training before offering tourism services.
“When NATOP is visible, other quacks will no longer have any option than to fall in line and do their business professionally. NATOP is strictly for professionals. We want to train people to become professionals, and clients should deal only with trained operators,” she said.
She added that NATOP plans to strengthen partnerships with foreign embassies to help identify genuine tour operators while working with federal and state governments to develop tourism destinations across Nigeria.
Lagos Government Commends Initiative
The Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Oloruntoyin Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, praised NATOP for establishing the headquarters.
She said the facility would boost domestic tourism and encourage more residents to explore tourism opportunities within Lagos.
According to her, the centre combines wellness, business and culinary experiences, making it an attractive destination for relaxation and networking.
“It’s going to help promote domestic tourism and community tourism a lot. When you’re busy or you feel stressed, come and de-stress here. It’s a place to be. I’m really very happy to be here. It’s so lovely. Fantastic idea,” she said.
Headquarters Symbolises Stability
Chairman, NATOP’s Board of Trustees, Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, described the headquarters as a symbol of stability and institutional growth.
He said the development demonstrates that the Association has built a stronger structure capable of supporting the future of Nigeria’s tourism industry.
“The opening of this secretariat signifies a whole lot. It signifies stability, structure and gives credence to the future,” he said.
Onung recalled that previous leaders managed the Association without a permanent office and commended the current administration for making the vision a reality.
He also urged state governments to continue partnering with NATOP to promote domestic tourism and showcase Nigeria’s tourism assets.
Centre for Collaboration and Growth
Industry stakeholders believe the National Secretariat will strengthen NATOP’s operations by providing a permanent platform for stakeholder engagement, policy advocacy, professional development and tourism promotion.
Beyond serving as an administrative office, the headquarters is expected to host industry meetings, training programmes, research activities and strategic planning sessions.
The commissioning ceremony attracted prominent stakeholders, including tourism consultant Ikechi Uko, tour operators, travel professionals, investors and development partners.
Focus Shifts to 10th AGM
The unveiling of the National Secretariat officially sets the stage for NATOP’s 10th Annual General Meeting.
The AGM will bring together tour operators, government officials, policymakers, hospitality practitioners and development partners to discuss the future of Nigeria’s tourism industry.
Key discussions will focus on destination development, tourism investment, digital transformation, capacity building, policy advocacy and sustainable tourism practices.
Participants are also expected to explore new opportunities for collaboration between tour operators, hospitality businesses, transport providers and government agencies.
Tourism Remains a Key Economic Opportunity
Stakeholders believe Nigeria’s tourism industry has enormous potential to become one of the country’s leading non-oil economic sectors.
With its rich cultural heritage, historical sites, festivals and natural attractions, Nigeria has significant opportunities to create jobs, attract investment and increase foreign exchange earnings.
However, industry leaders say stronger institutions, improved infrastructure, better destination marketing and greater collaboration are needed to unlock the sector’s full potential.
The establishment of NATOP’s first National Secretariat is widely seen as an important step toward achieving that goal while positioning the Association to play a greater role in advancing Nigeria’s tourism agenda.
 has unveiled its National Headquarters in Lagos ahead of its 10th Annual General Meeting, reinforcing efforts to strengthen Nigeria's tourism industry.){kind=link}