Dr Olayiwola Awakan has assumed office as the new Chairman of the African Travel Commission (ATC), marking a significant milestone for Nigeria’s tourism leadership on the continental stage.
The announcement was made during the commission’s recent high-level engagement and inaugural summit held in Lagos, underscoring Nigeria’s growing influence in shaping Africa’s tourism agenda.
The African Travel Commission operates as a continental platform dedicated to boosting travel within Africa, strengthening partnerships, promoting progressive policies, and projecting the continent as a unified global destination.
Founded in 1965, the commission was revitalised in Ghana in 2021 as a non-profit organisation under the leadership of its Executive Director, Dr Lucky George.
Awakan’s appointment further reflects Nigeria’s long-standing involvement in advancing international tourism cooperation, including its historic contributions to the development of global tourism institutions.
In his acceptance speech, Awakan pledged to champion sustainable tourism development, enhance competitiveness, promote cultural exchange, and unlock wider economic opportunities across Africa through robust public-private collaboration.
He also expressed confidence in the prospects of Nigeria’s tourism industry under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to him, the current administration has created a favourable environment for improving visa policies, strengthening air connectivity, and deepening regional integration.
Awakan said his leadership would focus on uniting tourism stakeholders across the continent and implementing strategic frameworks aimed at positioning Africa as a leading global tourism destination through innovation and coordinated advocacy.