The Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Dr. Ola Awakan, has underscored the critical role of tourism in Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.
Dr. Awakan made this known during a visit to his alma mater, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), in Ogun State, describing the visit as a full-circle moment marked by pride, recognition, and forward-looking collaboration.
He was accompanied by his wife, Omolola Ola Awakan, also an alumna of the institution, and was warmly received by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ayodeji Agboola, and members of the university’s management team.
During the visit, Dr. Awakan revealed plans for NTDA to collaborate with universities and relevant agencies to develop robust tourism-focused curricula, positioning the sector as a viable driver of job creation and economic growth.
In recognition of his achievements and contributions, the Department of Mass Communication at Olabisi Onabanjo University conferred on him the Great Ambassador Award, celebrating his professional accomplishments and exemplary representation of the institution.
He reaffirmed his commitment to giving back to the institution and expanding collaboration.
“We will be partnering with Olabisi Onabanjo University to create more initiatives beyond just having a Smart Tourism Hub in the university. It is about giving back to an institution that has shaped me into who and what I am today,” he said.
The visit also featured a tour of key upgraded facilities within the university, including its state-of-the-art ICT Centre, widely regarded as one of the largest of its kind in the country, highlighting the institution’s commitment to innovation, growth, and academic excellence.
Reacting, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ayodeji Agboola, described Dr. Awakan as a worthy ambassador of the institution and commended his passion for excellence and continued commitment to giving back.
The visit stands as a testament to the importance of alumni engagement and institutional collaboration in driving innovation, inspiring students, and advancing Nigeria’s tourism sector.