Stakeholders including the minister of Tourism Mrs Lola Ade- John, state commissioners , Head of State’s agency for tourism and others have commended Ambassador Wanle Akinboboye for the Ipada Initiatives
The Ipada Initiative is a Motherland Beckons’ activation by Akinboboye that is designed to ignite mass movement of Africans in the Diaspora all over the world to Africa – Motherland – using Lagos as a gateway to other parts of Africa.
The Ipada Carnival 2024 is going to be the biggest ever cultural, arts, fashion, musical concerts and potpourri of entertainment at La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort. It is scheduled to be held between November 28 and December 8, 2024, with both events expected to attract over five to 10 million tourists to Nigeria and other African countries on an annual basis.
The 10-day event will offer a memorable platform for tourists, both business and leisure travellers, to explore the abundant and colourful cultural experience that would be uniquely curated for them and business opportunities in Africa through the Business Unusual programme, which entails a number of activations.
At the briefing of state commissioners and head of tourism agencies on the event in Lagos on Monday, the stakeholders’s described the event as a welcome development and pledge their full support.
Dr. Akinboboye opened the briefing by highlighting the initiative’s importance in promoting cultural heritage and unity among Africans worldwide. He outlined planned activities, including cultural festivals, educational programs, and heritage tours, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of local communities, government agencies, and international partners to ensure the initiative’s success.
Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, delivered a compelling speech on Ekiti State’s tourism potential. He detailed how the state, with its rich natural beauty and cultural heritage, is committed to contributing to the Ipada Initiative. Ambassador Ojo-Lanre stressed that Ekiti State’s involvement would set a leading example in utilizing tourism for cultural reconnection and economic growth.
Bolaji Mustapha, the new President of the National Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), praised Dr. Akinboboye’s ongoing efforts to advance tourism development in Nigeria. She expressed eagerness for collaboration on the Ipada Initiative, highlighting the association’s support.
Otunba Abiodun Ojo, Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Tourism in Osun State, reiterated Governor Ademola Jackson Adeleke’s support for the initiative. He emphasized Osun State’s readiness to actively participate and contribute to its success.
Representatives from Lagos, Ogun, and Kano States also voiced their support for the Ipada Initiative. The CEO of the Kano State Tourism Board, representatives from the Ogun State Commissioner of Tourism, and Lagos State delegates all endorsed the initiative, underscoring their commitment to a unified approach in promoting cultural heritage and strengthening ties with the African diaspora.
The briefing included updates on preparations for the return of African descendants, including arrangements for accommodation, cultural orientation, and participation in local community events to provide an authentic heritage experience.
The event concluded with an interactive session where delegates and stakeholders discussed the initiative’s potential impacts on local communities and the broader African continent. A strong sense of unity and commitment to the initiative’s objectives was evident.
The Minister of Tourism in her closing remark appreciated all attendees for their support and reiterated the Federal government’s commitment to the Ipada Initiative, marking it as a new chapter in African diaspora relations.
