By Joshua Yousouph
The President of the National Association of Nigeria Tour Operators (NATOP), Bolaji Mustapha, has been re-elected unopposed to lead the association for another term following the association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Ikeja, Lagos.
The AGM, which took place at the Remi Tinubu Hall in Alausa, witnessed the endorsement of Mustapha’s leadership by members of the association, who returned her to office without opposition.
Speaking after her re-election, Mustapha expressed appreciation to members for their confidence in her administration and pledged to further strengthen the association’s presence across the country.
According to her, the focus of her new term would be to deepen tourism promotion, showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, and position the country more prominently on the global tourism map.
“NATOP is not about me. It’s about our people, our culture, and putting Nigeria back on the global tourism map,” she said.
Reflecting on the achievements of her first tenure, Mustapha highlighted the acquisition of NATOP’s first national headquarters in Lagos as a major milestone. She also noted significant growth in membership, increased visibility for the association, and renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s tourism sector.
The AGM attracted key stakeholders from the tourism and aviation industries, including Allen Onyema, founder of Air Peace, and Abisoye Fagade, Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR).
Also in attendance were representatives of the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Police Force, underscoring the critical role of security in promoting tourism and ensuring safe travel experiences across the country.
Mustapha further acknowledged the support of the Chairman of NATOP’s Board of Trustees, Nkereuwem Onung, as well as Engr. Sarat Braimah of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Dr. Gani Tarzan Balogun, Damilola Emmanuel, Hon. Henry Olaoluwa Onifade and Tope Fajemirokun for their contributions to the association’s progress.
Industry stakeholders at the event expressed optimism that NATOP’s renewed leadership would further strengthen Nigeria’s tourism sector, attract more investment, and enhance the country’s competitiveness as a preferred destination for domestic and international tourists.
