Janefrances Chibuzor
As conversations around the future of tourism in Africa continue to grow, newly elected President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Mr Badaki Aliyu, says the key to unlocking West Africa’s tourism potential lies in education, youth involvement, and local community engagement. In this exclusive with Berexnews at the African Hospitality and Tourism Education Summit (AHTES) 2025 in Lagos, he shares his views on policy implementation, regional collaboration, and why tourism must start in the classroom.
Mr Badaki Aliyu, the newly elected President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), has said that tourism cannot grow without proper education and stronger youth participation.
Speaking to Berexnews at the 2025 (AHTES) in Lagos, Mr Aliyu emphasised that education is the bedrock of progress in the tourism sector.
“This event means a lot to me because it centres on education,” he said. “Many people enter tourism without truly understanding it. That’s why some don’t succeed. I’m glad to see young people here today eager to learn. They must be properly trained if they hope to take over from us tomorrow.”
On Tourism Growth in West Africa
When asked what can be done to boost tourism across West Africa, Mr Aliyu highlighted three key steps: education, collaboration between nations, and ease of movement across borders.
“Before you can sell anything, you must first develop the product,” he explained. “And if travelling between countries is difficult, tourism won’t grow. People must be taught in school about the value of exploring beyond their environment. That knowledge stays with them for life.”
Policy and Implementation
Mr Aliyu acknowledged that while Nigeria has several tourism policies on paper, implementation remains the biggest hurdle.
“Policies mean nothing if stakeholders don’t support them,” he said. “The Ministry is reviewing existing documents, but we must all agree on a clear path forward. That’s the only way to move from talk to action.”
Local Communities Matter
Mr Aliyu strongly emphasised the importance of involving local communities in tourism development.
“You can’t build tourism without locals. Every tourist attraction is found in someone’s village or town. The locals must benefit. Their crafts, farming, culture—these are part of what attracts visitors.”
He encouraged planners to ensure communities are part of the tourism value chain.
On Youth and Tourism Education
He expressed concern that many students mistakenly see hospitality as separate from tourism.
“Tourism is the umbrella,” he said. “Hospitality, culture, and business are all part of it. Tourism is the vehicle that carries them. Young people must understand this.”
He called on event organisers to do more than just deliver speeches.
“Don’t only speak to them. Create learning spaces where they can fully understand and take part. That’s how they’ll grow.”
“This is what I studied. This is my life,” he told Berexnews.
