Nigeria is gearing up for the 2025 Destination Nigeria Governors’ Tourism Conference (DNGTC), a major national event aimed at unlocking the country’s vast tourism potential and positioning it as a premier destination on the global tourism map.
The announcement was made on Monday during a press briefing held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, where the Convener of the conference, Amb. Ayo Omotoso, unveiled details of the upcoming event scheduled for August 25 to 26, 2025, at the Ladi Kwali Conference Centre, Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja.
With the theme “Harnessing Tourism: A Strategic Pathway for Nigerian Governors to Foster Economic Growth and Employment”, DNGTC 2025 is expected to bring together state governors, tourism stakeholders, cultural ambassadors, and international investors to explore how tourism can drive economic transformation, promote cultural integration, and create employment opportunities across Nigeria.
Amb. Omotoso emphasized the critical role tourism can play in economic development, referencing countries like Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, and Rwanda that have successfully leveraged tourism to boost revenue and create jobs. He noted that Nigeria, blessed with immense natural and cultural resources, must take deliberate steps to tap into its tourism goldmine.
“Nigeria has over 45 breathtaking waterfalls, diverse festivals, rich traditions, and a wide variety of natural attractions. Each state possesses a unique comparative advantage in terms of tourism products. If properly harnessed, tourism can significantly improve our internally generated revenue and provide sustainable livelihoods,” he said.
The conference will feature a variety of engaging segments including:
- Cultural performances and state tourism showcases
- Creative economy and digital innovation expos
- Pan-African and domestic tourism forums
- Nigerian fashion exhibitions
- Executive tourism dialogues
- Discussions on climate change and tourism infrastructure
- Nigeria Sustainable Tourism Awards
- Destination Security and Peace Forum
According to the organizers, the key objectives of the event are to promote tourism as a catalyst for economic development, job creation, peacebuilding, and social cohesion while spotlighting Nigeria’s cultural assets and integrating them into the global tourism ecosystem.
Amb. Omotoso described the conference as a “resilient and forward-thinking platform” that will shape the future of tourism in Nigeria, calling on all stakeholders to support the initiative. “Let us embark on this journey to discover the wonders of Nigeria, promote it, and develop a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable tourism industry that truly reflects the soul of our nation,” he concluded.
With high-profile attendees expected and a comprehensive agenda, DNGTC 2025 promises to be a landmark event in the nation’s tourism calendar.
