Events

When FTAN honoured Gov Eno, Tarzan, Anyanwu with Tourism Icon Brand award

Published

1 year ago

October 14, 2023

The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) has honoured three distinguished personalities with its yearly World Tourism Day celebration’s signature awards, ‘Tourism Icon Brand Award.’

The prestigious awards were bestowed on the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Eno Umo; Dr Ganiyu Balogun Tarzan, President of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters Association (ATBOWATON) and President of the Nigeria Hotels Association (NHA), Eze (Dr) Igwe Patrick Anyanwu.

In his remarks, president of FTAN, Mr Nkereuwen Onung, explained the rationale behind its awards to selected individuals in the society, saying it is guided by the need to recognise the commitment and efforts put in over the years by the recipients.

Onung explained that the recipients have lifted the sector through personal efforts and are committed to the growth and development of the industry.

“The recipients may look ordinary to an average person watching, but for those in the industry, we know how much of their personal resources, efforts and time have been spent struggling to firmly establish their personal businesses or the tourism industry. And what we see today is only a testament of the body of work these recipients have committed into the sector,” Onung said.

Receiving his award for Tourism Icon, Igwe Anyanwu thanked FTAN for the recognition and also the Akwa Ibom state government for honouring the FTAN President, ‘their son’ with a position in the state executive council (SEC), just as he recounted his years of working to grow the hospitality sector of the country’s economy.

On his part, Dr Tarzan, who also doubles as the president of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters Association (ATBOWATON), thanked FTAN for the honour bestowed him, urging the Akwa Ibom State governor, Umo Eno, to work towards empowering boat operators in the state to enable them expand their operations.

“The Akwa Ibom State Government has created the Ibom Air for the air travellers, we want you to also create Ibom Waters so that boat operators can spread their operations to utilise the expansive waterways in the state.

Responding, however, the Akwa Ibom state’s commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, said the government is putting necessary infrastructure in place to enable water transportation within the state’s territory, just as he explained that inter-state water transportation is not ‘in the hands of the Akwa Ibom State to determine.’

Receiving the award on behalf of the State Governor, Umo Eno, the commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism, Udoh while appreciating FTAN’s gesture, said the government remains committed to establishing Akwa Ibom as a destination of choice in the country, and the world, as the aim is to create a globally recognised tourist destination for it.

Earlier, Wednesday, the FTAN president in his welcome address at the opening of activities lined upo by his association commemorating the WTD in Akwa Ibom State, noted that the theme of this year’s celebration ‘underscores the pivotal role that tourism plays in driving sustainable development and fostering responsible investments in our industry.’

According to Onung, who also commended the Federal Government for carving out the Tourism Ministry from the old Culture, Information and National Orientation setup, the theme further highlights the urgent need for the tourism sector to embrace green investments that promote environmental sustainability and economic growth simultaneously.

“I appreciated the President Tinubu bid for creating two separate ministries; Tourism and that of Culture and entertainment economy. This makes the theme of this year’s WTD apt because these two ministries will separate budgetary allocation, which we believe will enhance investment and create jobs.

“Tourism can bring in the much-needed revenue to local economies, support job creation, and preserve cultural heritage. It can also help to promote cross-cultural understanding and foster positive relationships between people from different backgrounds,” Onung said.

Related Topics:Events Featured FTAN Gov Eno

Up Next

Olori Janet Afolabi Hosts Rural Women Summit, Doles Out Financial Support

Don't Miss

Tubaba, Sabinus, Francis Duru, others to perform at SOS Charity Gala, Award Night in Abuja

Click to comment

Events

Igbere Cultural Festival: Promoting Heritage and Unity

Published

1 week ago

January 6, 2025

Lanre

The Igbere Cultural Festival celebrates the ancestral heritage of 13 villages in Abia State, uniting communities through tradition and culture.

Eminent entrepreneur and politician Chimaobi Anyaso has lauded the annual Igbere Cultural Festival for its role in preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the Igbere people.

The festival, held in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, is sponsored by the OUK Foundation, founded by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu.

Speaking during the event at Amaiyi Village, Anyaso commended the former governor of Abia State for his unwavering support of the festival, which celebrates the ancestral practices of Igbere’s 13 villages.

The event showcases the unique folklore, traditional cuisines, dances, hospitality, attire, and language nuances of each community.

“This is a remarkable initiative to promote our forefathers’ culture, especially the positive aspects,” Anyaso said. “Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s efforts to unite the people and celebrate our heritage are commendable.

It’s a sacrifice that fosters reconnection with our roots and sets an example for others to emulate.”

Anyaso urged both the government and private sectors to increase investments in Nigeria’s cultural and tourism industries, emphasising their potential for substantial economic returns.

The 4th edition of the Igbere Cultural Festival, a two-day event, was held simultaneously across all 13 villages of Igbere: Agbo, Eziama, Amaukwu, Amakpo, Amankalu, Ibinanta, Amaofufu, Ibinaukwu, Umunsi, Okafia, Ohumola, Amaoji, and Amaiyi.

The celebration featured an array of traditional activities, including local food processing, wrestling, drama, folklore, poetry, lectures, dancing, and beauty contests.

Foreign tourists from the Republic of China also attended, enjoying the warm hospitality of the Igbere people, the pleasant weather, and the region’s scenic hilly landscape.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, in a statement, highlighted the festival’s role in promoting unity, peace, and social interaction.

“The cultural splendour of the 13 villages was once again reinvigorated, leaving a lasting impression on participants. This event is a testament to our historical existence and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage,” Kalu said.

The festival not only strengthens community ties but also showcases Nigeria’s vibrant cultural diversity to a global audience, positioning it as a key event in the nation’s cultural tourism calendar.

Events

Destination Lagos Awards 2024: A night to celebrate culture, tourism, and excellence

Published

3 weeks ago

December 27, 2024

Lanre

Lagos celebrates tourism and culture with the Destination Lagos Awards 2024, honouring contributions to the city’s growth and development.

Today, Friday, December 27, 2024, Lagos will shine once again with the highly anticipated Destination Lagos Awards 2024 and the glamourous beauty pageant, Oju-Ibile Eko, taking place at the John Randle Cultural Centre in Onikan.

The event promises to be a spectacular celebration of the state’s cultural heritage, tourism, and the contributions of influential figures in the industry.

Also read: Recognition awards celebrate exceptional service during black history month

This year’s awards come on the heels of the IPADA Initiative Celebration 2024 fiesta, which has captivated global attention over the past ten days.

The recent festivities included a host of exciting events such as the Lagos Boat Regatta 2024, where vibrant displays from Lagos’ five Ibile divisions dazzled audiences with intricately decorated boats, live performances, rowing competitions, and much more, leaving attendees with lasting memories of Lagos’ aquatic excellence and cultural vibrancy.

The Destination Lagos Awards 2024 is the brainchild of renowned tourism expert Apata Nunanyon Sampson, the Project Director and National Vice President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN).

Sampson has worked tirelessly to position Lagos as a global tourism destination, and today, the event will honour the efforts of key stakeholders, including Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who will be recognised for his unparalleled commitment to the tourism sector.

Sampson praised Governor Sanwo-Olu’s visionary leadership, which has significantly contributed to the development of Lagos’ tourism sector.

“The Governor’s administration has been instrumental in promoting tourism in Lagos State. His vision for tourism development is unparalleled, and we are proud to recognise his efforts through the Destination Lagos Awards,” Sampson stated.

Today’s event will not only spotlight the achievements of individuals and organisations in the tourism and hospitality industry, but also celebrate Lagos State’s diverse and rich cultural heritage.

The activities lined up include cultural performances, an Art and Crafts exhibition showcasing the finest works of local artists and artisans, a Fashion Display featuring the latest trends in Lagos’ vibrant fashion scene, and a beauty pageant, Oju-Ibile Eko.

There will also be an exclusive performance by the Indian community in Lagos, adding an international flair to the celebration.

The Destination Lagos Awards 2024 will also provide a platform to recognise outstanding contributions to the growth and success of the hospitality sector, with awards set to be presented to key figures and organisations that have played a pivotal role in shaping Lagos as a global destination of choice.

Speaking ahead of today’s event, Mr. Diwesh, Managing Director of Donias and Head of the Expatriate Communities Committee for the event, shared his excitement for the unique opportunity that this occasion represents.

“The Destination Lagos Awards 2024 is a chance to showcase Lagos’ diverse cultural landscape and celebrate those who have contributed to its growth in tourism.

We are committed to making this event a resounding success and reinforcing Lagos’ position as a premier global destination,” he said.

The Destination Lagos Awards 2024 promises to be an unforgettable event that highlights the best of Lagos’ culture, tourism, and hospitality sectors while cementing the state’s reputation as the Centre of Excellence.

Events

Samuel Nwajagu makes history as First African Mister international winner

Published

4 weeks ago

December 17, 2024

Lanre

Samuel Nwajagu made history as the first African to win Mister International, taking the title in Bangkok, Thailand, on December 14, 2024.

Nigerian model Samuel Nwajagu has made history by becoming the first African to win the prestigious Mister International title.

The groundbreaking achievement occurred at the 16th edition of the global competition, held in Bangkok, Thailand, on Saturday, 14th December 2024.

Also read: Top 10 most spoken languages in the world 2024

The event, which drew 47 contestants from around the world, saw Nwajagu rise to the top amidst fierce competition. His victory is not only a personal triumph but also a significant moment for African representation in international beauty pageants.

Nwajagu’s journey to the global stage began earlier in the year when he was crowned Mister International Nigeria in July 2024, securing his place in the Mister International competition in Thailand.

This victory was a result of months of preparation, dedication, and his innate charisma, which captivated both the judges and audiences throughout the event.

In the grand finale, Nwajagu went head-to-head with two top finalists: Nguyễn Mạnh Lân from Vietnam and Glenn Victor Sutanto from Indonesia.

The three competed in various segments, showcasing their modelling skills, physical fitness, and personality. Ultimately, Nwajagu emerged as the winner, marking a historic milestone for Africa in the realm of global pageantry.

The Mister International competition is known for its emphasis on not just physical appearance but also character, leadership, and social responsibility. Nwajagu’s win serves as an inspiration to aspiring models and young people across the African continent, reinforcing the importance of confidence, dedication, and hard work in pursuing global recognition.

As the newly crowned Mister International, Nwajagu’s victory is expected to open doors for further international opportunities in modelling and ambassadorial roles.

His achievement continues to raise the profile of African talents on the world stage, proving that Africa’s presence in international competitions is stronger than ever.