Ooni, NTDA sign MoU to revolutionise tourism sector

In a landmark move poised to elevate Nigeria’s tourism landscape, the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) and Ojaja Pan Africa Limited, led by its chairman, His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the aim of harnessing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, cuisine, and hospitality to drive economic growth and position tourism as a cornerstone of national development.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, the Director General of NTDA, Dr Ola Awakan, said the partnership is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda of diversification from oil and amplification of the public-private partnership (PPP) initiative and praised the revered monarch whom he described as an epitome of culture, a father, a staunch supporter of the youth and a true royal figure.

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The DG said, “This partnership promises transformative benefits for Nigeria’s tourism industry, including economic diversification beyond oil dependency in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“By utilising our storytelling capabilities, we can generate sustainable revenue and attract investments, create jobs, and boost foreign exchange inflows.”

The Ooni, while commending the DG’s professionalism and dedication and his pivotal role in initiatives like the Royal African Youth Leadership Forum, called for continued promotion of youth interests in tourism, highlighting the DG’s nationwide experience and commitment to Nigeria’s diversity.

Oba Ogunwusi expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for appointing a youthful leader to head the NTDA, saying he also embodies youthful energy in cultural stewardship.

The event featured symbolic gestures underscoring the partnership’s focus with the DG presenting the Ooni souvenirs, including a plaque of Naija Flavour, as emblems to propel Nigeria’s tourism and cultural diplomacy.

Ojaja, a Pan-African platform specializing in cultural branding and investment facilitation, brings private capital and diaspora networks to the table, creating a synergistic public-private framework for sustainable tourism advancement.

The NTDA-Ojaja alliance sets a blueprint for tourism-led prosperity, promising lasting impacts on employment, revenue, and global visibility.