In a vibrant demonstration of public-private partnership in Nigeria’s tourism sector, the Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Dr. Olayiwola Ola Awakan, participated in the Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN) FCT Chapter Wellness Walk. 
The event, held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, with the theme “Walk for Wellness, Unity and Professional Growth,” brought together key stakeholders for a morning of fitness, networking, and collaboration. It started at Area 3 Junction, Abuja, between 7:00am and 9:00am. 
Dr. Awakan joined prominent leaders including Dr. Badaki Aliyu, President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN); Mrs. Susan Akporiaye, FTAN’s 1st Deputy President; and Chief Abiodun Odusanwo, National President of ITPN. 
Participants engaged in a refreshing walk that promoted physical health through calorie-burning exercise while fostering professional connections and strengthening ties between government agencies and private sector players in the tourism industry. Organizers described the walk as a platform to build unity, encourage healthy lifestyles, and drive collective growth within the sector. 
The participation of the NTDA DG underscores the Authority’s ongoing commitment to supporting private sector initiatives and collaborating with professional bodies like ITPN and FTAN. Such engagements are viewed as essential to advancing Nigeria’s tourism agenda, promoting sustainable development, and positioning the industry as a major contributor to national economic growth under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The colourful outing reflected a commendable tradition of synergy, where wellness, professional networking, and shared vision for tourism excellence converged on the streets of Abuja.
