LAGOS-
The Africa-International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC World) has congratulated Hajia Bolaji Mustapha, President of National Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) on the successful launch of her organisstion’s newly redesigned website and the unveiling of the innovative “Your Tourism Passport” tourism handbook, describing the initiative as a bold step toward promoting Nigeria as a leading tourism destination.
The launch took place during the 10th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference of NATOP, held on 9 July 2026 at the Oluremi Tinubu Hall in Lagos, Nigeria, attracting key stakeholders from the country’s tourism, aviation, and hospitality sectors.
Speaking at the event, the President of AITEC World, Amb. Dine Bouraima, expressed his delight over the initiative, emphasizing that strong institutions and innovative branding are essential to positioning any nation as a competitive global tourism destination.
According to him, the launch of NATOP’s new digital platform and the creatively designed “Your Tourism Passport” handbook—produced in the likeness of a Nigerian international passport—demonstrates the association’s commitment to promoting domestic tourism while showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural and tourism assets to both local and international audiences.
The new website and tourism handbook were officially unveiled by Aare Abisoye Fagade, the Director General of Nigerian Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) who applauded NATOP’s continued efforts in advancing Nigeria’s tourism industry through innovation and strategic collaboration.
The event also featured notable personalities, including Allen Onyema, Amb. Dine Bouraima, government officials, tourism practitioners, travel professionals, and other distinguished guests from across the sector.
Amb. Bouraima noted that countries that invest in strong tourism institutions, effective branding, and accessible information are better positioned to attract visitors, investors, and global partnerships. He commended NATOP’s leadership for introducing a unique marketing tool capable of inspiring Nigerians to explore their own country while enhancing the nation’s tourism image.
AITEC World reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships with NATOP and other tourism stakeholders across Africa, stressing that collaborative initiatives, digital transformation, and destination branding remain vital to unlocking the continent’s vast tourism and economic potential.
The launch of NATOP’s website and the “Your Tourism Passport” handbook marks another milestone in the association’s drive to promote Nigeria as a preferred tourism destination while supporting broader efforts to position Africa as a globally competitive tourism region.
