By: Tijani Salako.

Stakeholders in the tourism industry have reaffirmed that tourism remains one of the major drivers of economic growth and youth engagement, as they recently converged in Lagos to discuss possible pathways for stronger collaboration that can transform Africa’s tourism industry.

This assertion was made at the maiden edition of the Tour Operators International Conference and Expo (TOICE), which took place recently at the NECA House in Ikeja.

The event brought together tour operators, government officials, investors, exhibitors, and media professionals to deliberate on strategic partnerships and sustainable growth within the sector. The conference was themed “The Value of Collaboration: Transforming African Tourism through Strategic Partnerships.”

Speaking at the event, the convener of TOICE and founder of Getittome Travels, Mr. Ibrahim Makanjuola, stated that the gathering was designed to provide tour operators with a dedicated platform. The discussions focused on how cooperation among stakeholders can drive growth, improve service standards, and open new business opportunities across the sector.

Mr. Makanjuola noted that, “For years, there has been no platform built completely for tour operators, but today, that changes.” He shared his journey from being a young tourism enthusiast to founding the initiative, emphasising that passion and perseverance were key to bringing the idea to life.

He added that collaboration remains the most important factor in repositioning Africa’s tourism industry. “No single organisation, government body, or operator can grow this industry alone. But together, we can create a stronger ecosystem that attracts investment, improves our standards, and reshapes global perceptions,” he said.

He also announced the introduction of a practical workshop and certification programme for tour operators, endorsed by the West Africa Tourism Organization. According to him, the programme is aimed at improving professionalism and building capacity among operators across the region.

Meanwhile, industry leaders delivered goodwill messages, all stressing the need for unity. Dr. Badaki Aliyu, President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), praised the organisers for creating a platform that encourages partnerships, noting that tourism thrives best when stakeholders cooperate.

“Across Africa, no single institution or operator can unlock our full potential alone. Partnership is now the new currency of growth,” he said, reaffirming FTAN’s commitment to supporting sustainable development and regional integration.

His Royal Highness, Abiola Olojo-Kosoko, the Oloja of Lagos-Elect, also described the gathering as timely and transformative. He said joint efforts are necessary to unlock Africa’s vast tourism potential, benefit local communities, and promote sustainable development. He officially declared the conference open.

The President of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Hajia Bolaji Mustapha, commended the initiative for celebrating creativity and shared purpose within the sector. She noted that responsible travel and sustainable tourism must remain priorities for operators across the continent.

The one-day conference exposed participants to emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the tourism space. Many attendees praised the organisers for creating an open and forward-thinking environment that encourages professional growth and collaboration, reinforcing tourism’s role as a key driver of economic growth, youth empowerment, and cultural exchange across Africa.