Published on
January 16, 2026

The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria have agreed to such a landmark initiative that ensures the tapping of vast tourism potential in Nigeria by reinstating dedicated tourism information desks at key airports across the country. This is a strategic move to ensure an enhanced arrival experience for both international and domestic visitors, making Nigeria even more attractive to tourism.

Collaboration between NTDA and FAAN to Boost Tourism

This important decision came to fruition during a recent meeting between Dr. Olayiwola Awakan, the Director-General of NTDA, and Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FAAN, at the FAAN headquarters in Lagos. The collaboration between these two critical agencies reflects a shared vision of enhancing Nigeria’s tourism infrastructure and improving the overall visitor experience.

During the meeting, Awakan highlighted the importance of airports as the first point of contact for international visitors, noting that they play a pivotal role in shaping their initial impressions of Nigeria. “Airports are more than just transit hubs; they are the gateways to the Nigerian experience,” Awakan emphasized. “For any tourist, the first experience of Nigeria starts at the airport, and it is crucial that we make this a positive and welcoming one.”

Airports as Gateways to Nigeria’s Tourism Potential

Nigeria has long been seen as a country rich in untapped tourism potential. From its diverse cultural heritage and natural landscapes to eco-tourism hotspots and adventure destinations, the country is brimming with opportunities to attract international visitors. However, despite these vast opportunities, Nigeria’s tourism industry has struggled with challenges such as limited infrastructure, poor visitor information, and a lack of integrated tourism strategies.

Awakan described Nigeria as “sitting on a gold mine” of tourism opportunities, emphasizing that each region of the country offers something unique to tourists. Whether it’s the vibrant cultural scenes in cities like Lagos and Abuja, the stunning natural beauty of the Jos Plateau or the Niger Delta, or the growing adventure tourism sector in places like the Mambilla Plateau, Nigeria has the potential to become a leading global tourist destination.

“The future of tourism in Nigeria depends on compelling storytelling, reliable data, and seamless travel experiences,” Awakan said, urging for a more coordinated approach to tourism promotion. This is where the reinstatement of tourism information desks plays a key role, as it will provide immediate access to important resources for tourists arriving in the country.

The Return of Tourism Information Desks at Major Airports

One of the central elements of the partnership between NTDA and FAAN is the revival of tourism information desks at Nigeria’s major international airports. These desks will provide a vital service to incoming passengers by offering them access to essential materials such as maps, guides, brochures, local travel options, and highlights of Nigeria’s key tourist attractions.

Currently, many international visitors arrive in Nigeria with limited knowledge of the country’s offerings, and the availability of reliable tourism information at the airport could greatly enhance their overall experience. With tourism information desks, tourists will have the opportunity to plan their visits better, learn about attractions that may interest them, and gain practical tips on navigating the local area, all from the comfort of the airport.

In addition to providing written materials, the desks will also be staffed by knowledgeable personnel who can answer questions and provide on-the-spot guidance. This face-to-face interaction ensures that visitors feel welcomed and informed as they begin their journey in Nigeria.

Enhancing Passenger Experience and Showcasing Nigeria’s Diversity

Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director of FAAN, expressed her full support for the renewed collaboration, acknowledging that the aviation and tourism sectors are naturally interconnected. She emphasized that the tourism desks would not only enhance the passenger experience but also contribute to the broader goal of boosting tourism arrivals to Nigeria.

“Tourism and aviation are both crucial to the economic growth of this nation. By providing better infrastructure, more welcoming environments, and comprehensive travel support, we can enhance the appeal of Nigeria as a destination for both international and domestic tourists,” Kuku said. She also acknowledged Awakan’s continued efforts and strong support for the collaboration over the years.

The return of tourism information desks is just one part of the broader initiative to enhance airport infrastructure and improve the overall visitor experience. FAAN has pledged to work closely with NTDA to develop and implement strategies that align with the growth of the tourism sector. This includes better signage at airports, more accessible travel information, and modernizing amenities to meet international standards.

Data Sharing and Coordination for Sustainable Tourism Growth

At the conclusion of the meeting, Dr. Awakan and Mrs. Kuku agreed to establish a joint committee tasked with coordinating data sharing and overseeing ongoing collaborative efforts between NTDA and FAAN. This committee will work on ensuring that the information provided to tourists is accurate and up-to-date, while also aligning with broader efforts to promote Nigeria as a top-tier tourism destination.

The joint committee will focus on creating a seamless experience for visitors, ensuring that their travel experience is streamlined from arrival to departure. By fostering collaboration between these two agencies, the initiative aims to build a robust foundation for long-term growth in Nigeria’s tourism industry.

Impact on Travel and Tourism in Nigeria

The reinstitution of tourism information desks at major airports is a significant step in making Nigeria a more attractive and accessible destination for international tourists. This initiative will play a crucial role in increasing Nigeria’s visibility on the global tourism map, enhancing the experience for visitors, and addressing long-standing gaps in tourist services.

Tourists often seek destinations that offer a combination of convenience, safety, and immersive experiences. By providing essential information and facilitating easy access to key travel resources, Nigeria is well on its way to offering a more seamless and enjoyable visit to its many diverse attractions.

Moreover, the partnership between NTDA and FAAN has the potential to drive growth in both domestic and international tourism, benefitting local economies, creating jobs, and promoting sustainable tourism practices across the country.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Nigeria’s Tourism

With Nigeria’s tourism sector on the rise, initiatives like the revival of tourism information desks represent a critical step in unlocking the country’s full potential. The collaborative efforts between NTDA and FAAN are setting the stage for a thriving tourism industry that offers visitors an unforgettable experience from the moment they step off the plane.