The organisers of the Ibadan Travel and Tourism Expo (ITTE) have announced Chief Engr. Dotun Sanusi, Chairman and CEO of Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort, as the Chairman of the second edition of the annual tourism event.
The Expo is scheduled to take place on April 16 and 17, 2025, at De Signature Tower Hotel, Ibadan, Oyo State.
In a statement jointly signed by the conveners, Ambassadors Taiwo and Kehinde Oguntoye, the organisers also revealed that Dr. Joseph Onoja, Director General of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, will deliver the keynote address. Onoja will speak on the theme of the 2025 edition: “Enhancing Sustainable Tourism for Social and Economic Transformation,” drawing insights from the success of the Lekki Conservation Centre.
The Ibadan Travel and Tourism Expo is a two-day international travel exhibition and roadshow aimed at promoting sustainable tourism. It will bring together key industry players, including tour operators, travel agencies, airlines, hospitality stakeholders, financial institutions, environmentalists, influencers, and government agencies, to explore opportunities for collaboration and growth in the sector.
According to the organisers, the event will feature networking sessions, roundtable discussions, trade deals, and exhibitions showcasing tourism-related products and services. One of the major panel discussions will focus on “Is Nigeria Safe for Tourists?” featuring representatives from hoteliers, tour operators, travel agencies, and the Nigeria Police Force.
Additionally, the Nigeria Immigration Service will hold a fireside chat on the country’s new e-visa system and immigration services, while a Young Professionals Session will explore the challenges and future prospects for youth in the tourism sector.
A notable presentation will be delivered by Ambassador Paula Aduke Gomez, Chief Cultural Ambassador of the Alaafin of Oyo, on “Marketing Cultural Heritage Sites and Authentic Travel Experiences – The World Sango Festival Perspective.”
The Royal Host of the event is His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I, Olubadan of Ibadanland, while the Chief Host is His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, FNSE, Executive Governor of Oyo State.
The event promises to be a pivotal moment in advancing discussions on sustainable tourism development and positioning Nigeria as a top travel destination.