The Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Dr. Ola Awakan, has called for deeper collaboration between the tourism and film industries to effectively project Nigeria’s rich destinations, cultural heritage, and authentic stories to both domestic and international audiences.
Dr. Awakan made the appeal during a high-level courtesy visit to the Executive Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Shaibu Husseini, at the Board’s headquarters.
Speaking on the mandate of the NTDA, Dr. Awakan emphasized that the Authority is statutorily responsible for the development, promotion, marketing, and showcasing of Nigeria’s tourism assets. He disclosed that the NTDA is preparing a major new initiative focused on telling authentic Nigerian stories through strategic storytelling platforms.
“We are seeking strong partnership with the NFVCB to support this ambitious project,” Dr. Awakan stated, adding that the collaboration would help position Nigeria’s tourism potential more effectively on the global stage.
In his response, Shaibu Husseini commended Dr. Awakan’s vision and commitment to repositioning Nigeria’s narrative through creative industries. He acknowledged the powerful role of film in shaping positive perceptions and driving visitor interest.
Husseini further highlighted the potential of large-scale indigenous film showcases as effective platforms that could be leveraged to promote Nigeria’s tourism assets to a much wider audience.
Both leaders expressed optimism that sustained collaboration between the NTDA and NFVCB would unlock new opportunities for cultural diplomacy, economic growth through tourism, and the global celebration of Nigerian creativity and destinations.
This partnership is expected to open fresh avenues for co-branded initiatives that blend cinematic excellence with tourism promotion, ultimately strengthening Nigeria’s soft power and attracting more visitors to its diverse attractions.
