The newly elected National President of Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN), Dr. Aliyu Badaki has hit the ground running with the plan to launch “Tourism Transformation Movement” (TTM).
Dr. Badaki in his inaugural address noted that he did not contest the position to hold title but to work hard with other Executive to ensure that Tourism takes its rightful place in Nigeria.
Read full address below.
Ladies and gentlemen, it is with a deep sense of humility, gratitude, and unwavering commitment that I stand before you today as the newly elected President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN).
First, we thank the Almighty God who has made this day possible. We give glory to Him for granting us a peaceful, successful, and historic transition. Leading up to today, the atmosphere has been tense. Some predicted conflict. Some foresaw the process being cut short. Others whispered of a possible parallel FTAN, but today, all those fears have been put to rest. FTAN has emerged stronger, more united, and more determined than ever to forge a new path for tourism development in Nigeria.
Let me begin by expressing my sincere appreciation to the Board of Trustees, the outgoing President and the executive team, the FTAN Council, and the entire General Assembly. You have not only made this transition smooth but also memorable—anchored on civility, professionalism, and hope.
I am extending my gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Arts, Creative Economy and Culture whose unwavering support and interest in our industry’s development continue to inspire us. To our dedicated MDAs within the Ministry, our partner agencies, and the Chairs of tourism committees at the National Assembly, we look forward to deep collaboration, constructive engagement, and shared progress. A special word of appreciation goes to Otunba Olusegun Runsewe for his timely interventions and steadfast commitment to ensuring a seamless transition process.
Let me take a moment to reaffirm our collective mission under this new dispensation: We are launching what we proudly call the Tourism Transformation Movement (TTM). This is not just a campaign slogan; it is a call to action, a framework for reform, and a promise of progress.
Our detailed agenda includes:
• Strengthening the structure and visibility of FTAN across Nigeria and beyond.
• Building capacity and upskilling our members through consistent training and certification.
• Promoting public-private partnerships and removing bottlenecks that hinder tourism growth.
• Advocating policy reforms that will unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s diverse tourism assets.
• Embracing youth and women’s inclusion in tourism leadership and business.
Details of this transformational agenda will be unveiled in the coming days.
Dear colleagues, the politics is over. The contest is over. The time for work has arrived. Let us now come together, not as rivals but as compatriots, not just as business owners but as ambassadors of tourism development. I pay tribute to all our past leaders whose tireless efforts have brought FTAN to where we are today. You laid the foundation—we will now build the structure. And I assure you, we will not let you down.
We are not here to waste time. We are ready to hit the ground running. As such:
• Our inaugural executive meeting will be held tomorrow at Kapital Klub and Apartments at 9:00 AM.
• A strategic retreat will be organized for the newly elected EXCOs to equip them with the tools needed for the task ahead.
• We look forward to celebrating the World Tourism Day with the Ministry of Tourism come September 27th.
• We will hold stakeholders’ engagements before the end of this year, bringing all arms of the sector together to collectively shape our direction.
Under my leadership, FTAN will be governed by principles of:
• Transparency in financial management.
• Inclusivity, as no voice shall be ignored, and no hand will be left idle.
• Committee-based participation as every member will have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully.
• Humility in service because we are here to serve, not to rule.
Let me be clear, all elected officers must roll up their sleeves. This is not a ceremonial title; it is a responsibility we must carry with discipline and vision.
Let me also state that no association can thrive without a succession plan. And so, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of tourism leaders by providing young professionals with meaningful roles. I call on young Professionals to join FTAN’s registered associations aligned with their interests. Whether in tour operations, hotel management, heritage preservation, or digital tourism. Your energy is needed. Your ideas are welcome. The future belongs to you.
I will conclude by acknowledging our supporters across Nigeria and abroad, for your encouragement has meant the world to me.
To my loving wife, children, and the entire team at my company, thank you for standing by me and enduring the sacrifices required for this moment.
Together, we are about to begin a new chapter. Let it be known, that tourism in Nigeria has found a new voice, a new vision, and a renewed vigor.
May FTAN rise, may Nigerian tourism thrive, and may our collective efforts bear fruit for generations to come.
Thank you, and God bless you all.
