The Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Mr. Folorunsho Coker, recently participated in the General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), where the Corporation was successfully readmitted as an affiliate member of the organization.
The UNWTO General Assembly took place in Madrid, Spain, from November 30 to December 3, 2021. The NTDC had previously lost its affiliate membership due to non-payment of membership dues by former Directors General. However, under the leadership of Mr. Coker, the NTDC settled seven years of outstanding dues and was invited to observe the General Assembly, where they were officially welcomed back into the organization.
During the 24th General Assembly of the UNWTO, the NTDC actively participated in various activities, including the 43rd Affiliate Members Plenary Session held at the Madrid Marriott Auditorium Hotel and Convention Center. The NTDC’s candidature to rejoin as an affiliate member was submitted for consideration and received official approval during the General Assembly session on December 1, 2021.
The readmittance of Nigeria into the UNWTO is expected to significantly enhance the development of the country’s tourism potential and attract more foreign investments, aligning with the goals of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. Mr. Coker expressed his satisfaction with being a participant at the UNWTO General Assembly and used the opportunity to advocate for greater support for Nigeria as a leading tourism destination in Africa.
The World Tourism Organization, established on November 1, 1975, is the United Nations’ specialized agency responsible for promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism. With its headquarters in Madrid, Spain, the UNWTO is dedicated to advancing sustainable tourism that preserves the world’s natural heritage. The General Assembly, the supreme organ of the UNWTO, meets every two years to approve the budget and work program, debate key issues, and elect a Secretary-General every four years. It is recognized as the most significant global meeting of senior tourism officials and high-level representatives from the private sector.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
