Ooni of Ife Hosts NANTA Delegation Ahead of 50th Anniversary Conference, Pledges Royal Support
In a significant move that underscores the growing synergy between traditional institutions and the tourism industry, a high-powered delegation from the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) paid a courtesy visit to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, at his palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The visit, which forms part of activities marking NANTA’s 50th anniversary celebration, highlighted the association’s commitment to promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage on the global stage.
Akahi News gathered that the delegation was led by Dr Dagunduro Olatokunbo, 2nd National Deputy President of NANTA, alongside Prince Ajibade Abiodun Olaleye, Vice President-elect of the Western Zone.
Warm Reception and Royal Engagement
Upon arrival in Ile-Ife, the delegation was first received at the Ife Grand Resort by Hon Uzoma Ani, one of the Special Assistants to the Ooni of Ife, before proceeding to the palace for the formal audience.
The reception at both the resort and the palace reflected the deep respect accorded to the visiting delegation, as well as the importance attached to the upcoming anniversary event.
At the palace, Oba Ogunwusi expressed delight at the association’s milestone celebration, describing 50 years of NANTA’s existence as a remarkable achievement in Nigeria’s travel and tourism sector.
Ooni Commits to NANTA Conference, Highlights Cultural Heritage
In a major boost to the event, the Ooni of Ife pledged to attend the official opening of the NANTA Conference and Exhibition scheduled for April 16, 2026. He assured the delegation of his readiness to join other high-profile dignitaries in declaring the event open, offering royal blessings for its success.
The monarch also commended the theme of the Annual General Meeting, “Embracing our diverse cultural heritage from the city of firsts: Redefining our roles as global travel ambassadors.”
According to him, the theme is both timely and strategic, as it reflects the urgent need to reposition Nigeria’s cultural identity in the global tourism market.
Akahi News learnt that the Ooni emphasised that promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage should not be seen as the exclusive responsibility of traditional rulers alone. Rather, he noted that stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry play a crucial role as ambassadors of the nation’s cultural wealth.
Ile-Ife: The Cradle of Civilisation
Speaking further, Oba Ogunwusi described Ile-Ife as the cradle of the Yoruba race and a significant origin point of humanity and civilisation.
He noted that hosting the NANTA stakeholders in the ancient city would offer delegates a unique opportunity to reconnect with their roots and appreciate the depth of Nigeria’s historical and cultural legacy.
As part of the anniversary activities, the palace is expected to host NANTA stakeholders on April 15, 2026, for a guided tour. The visit, according to the monarch, will serve as a cultural immersion experience, reinforcing the essence of the conference theme.
Strengthening Tourism Through Collaboration
The visit also provided an avenue for dialogue on how to strengthen collaboration between traditional institutions and tourism stakeholders.
Analysts believe that such partnerships are vital for unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector, particularly in areas of cultural tourism, heritage preservation, and international promotion.
Akahi News gathered that the presence of top NANTA officials at the meeting further demonstrated the association’s seriousness in engaging key stakeholders ahead of its landmark celebration.
Key Delegates in Attendance
Other members of the delegation included Mr Obasa Oyebola, former Zonal Public Relations Officer; Dr Adegboola Olufemi, Financial Secretary; Mr Ojekunle Afeez, Welfare Officer; and Mr Solomon Olabayo, Osun State Chapter Coordinator, alongside other members of the Osun State chapter.
Their participation reflects a broad representation of the association’s leadership and grassroots structure, reinforcing unity and shared purpose within the organisation.
Royal Blessings and Outlook for the Event
In his concluding remarks, the Ooni of Ife offered prayers for a successful and impactful event, expressing confidence that the NANTA conference would yield meaningful outcomes for the travel and tourism industry in Nigeria.
The royal endorsement is widely seen as a major morale boost for organisers, as well as a symbol of the enduring role of traditional institutions in national development.
The courtesy visit by NANTA to the Ooni of Ife not only sets the tone for a memorable 50th anniversary celebration but also highlights the importance of collaboration in promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage globally.
As preparations intensify for the conference and exhibition, stakeholders remain optimistic that the event will redefine the role of travel professionals as ambassadors of culture and drivers of economic growth.
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