ATPN Urges Ogun State to Establish Tourism Offices in All 20 LGAs

The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) has urged Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State to establish tourism departments in all 20 local government areas (LGAs) across the state.

Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, National Vice-President of ATPN South-West Region, made this appeal during the inauguration of the ATPN Ogun State chapter. The event took place on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Cinema Hall of the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.

In his keynote address, titled “Unlocking Ogun State’s Tourism Potential: The Vehicle And The Driver: Role Of PPP (Public, Private Partnerships/Collaboration),” Hon. Apata explained that creating tourism offices in local government areas would help decentralise tourism development. This is crucial, he noted, as private tourism investors are located in various LGAs.

He emphasised that such initiatives would ultimately increase local participation, enhance community engagement, promote local attractions, and further boost domestic tourism.

During the vibrant ceremony, which included the inauguration of the Mrs. Melutia Ogunremi-led ATPN Ogun State chapter, Hon. Apata, who is also the CEO of Eko Destination Limited, stressed that unlocking Ogun State’s tourism potential requires a collaborative effort between the government and the private sector.

READ MORE:

• How Rex Clarke Adventures Is Transforming Nigeria’s Tourism Via Storytelling & Culture
• Green Tourism in Nigeria (2025): What Tourists Should Know
• Governor Makinde Unveils Oyo’s Tourism Blueprint at International Summit in Ibadan

He said, “Today, I want to emphasise the importance of partnership in driving tourism development in Ogun State.

“Every laudable national/state endeavour rests majorly on its Government as such to achieve a more robust tourism industry in Ogun State, Government serving as the engine in this scenario should provide the following: enabling environment, infrastructure upgrades and policy framework to support tourism development that includes streamlining regulatory processes, and promoting tourism-friendly policies.”

Discussing the roles expected of the private sector, the ATPN Southwest Vice-Chairman described private sector players as “the fuel and the driver” in the tourism journey.

“The private sector can bring the needed expertise, innovation, and investment to the table. By partnering with the Government, private sector stakeholders can help develop and manage tourism infrastructure, create jobs, build capacity, promote local economic growth,” he added.

According to him, a strong partnership between the government and private sector operators could lead to increased investment in tourism infrastructure, job creation, economic growth, and an enhanced visitor experience, among other benefits.

Hon. Apata congratulated the newly inaugurated Ogun State chapter, led by Mrs. Ogunremi, and its other executive members, wishing them success.

He added, “Special greetings to our pioneer Chairman, who is also celebrating her 60th birthday today. May this milestone birthday mark new beginnings and continued success in leading ATPN Ogun State Chapter to greater heights.”

In a goodwill message, Dr. Kola Lawal, the Oyo State Chapter Chairman, wrote, “Warm congratulations to the Ogun State Chapter of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) on the successful inauguration of the state chapter.

“This marks a significant milestone in advancing tourism development and professional collaboration within the state. Your dedication to promoting sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, and community engagement is truly commendable.

“Wishing the chapter great success in its mission to elevate Ogun State as a premier tourism destination in Nigeria,” he added.

 

Showcase Nigeria Through Your Lens – Join Our Open Call for Creators

Are you a photographer, videographer, or content creator passionate about capturing Nigeria’s beauty, from fashion runways and cultural festivals to tourist landmarks and local events? Our Open Call for Content Creators in Nigeria is your opportunity to get featured, collaborate, and bring authentic Nigerian stories to life. Whether you’re into travel, lifestyle, or visual storytelling, we want to see Nigeria through your eyes.

Stay informed with the latest updates on Nigeria’s travel scene by visiting the Nigeria Tourism News section on Rex Clarke Adventures.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Answers

What is the main appeal made by the ATPN to the Ogun State Governor? 

The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) has appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun to establish tourism departments in all 20 local government areas across Ogun State.

Who made this appeal, and where was it made? 

Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, National Vice-President of ATPN South-West Region, appealed to the Cinema Hall of the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, during the inauguration of the ATPN Ogun State chapter.

When did the inauguration of the ATPN Ogun State chapter take place? 

The inauguration was held on Saturday, July 26, 2025.

What is the primary reason for establishing tourism departments in LGAs, according to Hon. Apata? 

Hon. Apata explained that these departments would help decentralise tourism development and make it easier for private tourism investors, who are domiciled in different LGAs, to operate and contribute.

What benefits are expected from such initiatives?

A5: The initiatives are expected to increase local participation, enhance community engagement, promote local attractions, and further boost domestic tourism.

What is the role of the government and the private sector in unlocking Ogun State’s tourism potential? 

The government is seen as the “engine,” providing an enabling environment, infrastructure upgrades, and policy frameworks. The private sector is described as the “fuel and the driver,” bringing expertise, innovation, and investment to develop and manage tourism infrastructure, create jobs, and promote economic growth.

Who is the newly inaugurated Chairman of the ATPN Ogun State chapter? 

Mrs. Melutia Ogunremi is the newly inaugurated Chairman of the ATPN Ogun State chapter.