In a move signaling a focus on Nigeria’s cultural roots, the newly appointed Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Mr. Olayiwola Awakan, has described the ancient city of Badagry as the “haven of tourism in Nigeria,” committing to leverage the nation’s rich heritage for economic growth.
The declaration was made recently during a courtesy visit to the palace of His Royal Majesty, the Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I.
Mr. Awakan’s visit to the historic town was part of the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) Mandatory Training Programme for Chief Executives of Federal Parastatals and Agencies, held in Badagry.
The NTDA boss, who was accompanied by the Director General of ASCON, Dr. (Mrs.) Funke Adepoju, and the Artistic Director of the National Troupe of Nigeria, Hajia Kaltume Bulama Gana, framed the moment as a strategic homecoming for his nascent administration.
“Badagry is the haven of tourism in Nigeria,” stated Mr. Awakan. “As someone newly appointed just two weeks ago, I see this as a divine opportunity to begin from the roots of our heritage.”
The visit, which included discussions on cultural preservation and community involvement in tourism, is seen as a direct alignment with the broader vision of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, under the leadership of Hannatu Musa Musawa. The Ministry has recently championed the “Tour Nigeria” initiative, which aims to stimulate domestic tourism and showcase the country’s vast potential.
Industry watchers believe that starting a tenure with a focus on a destination as historically significant as Badagry, a key point in the transatlantic slave trade, sends a strong message about a culture-first approach to tourism development.
