Tinubu Appoints Olayiwola Nurudeen as NTDC Director-General to Boost Nigerian Tourism

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In a strategic move to fortify Nigeria’s institutional framework and drive national development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of three key executives to lead federal agencies. 

The decision, announced on September 30, 2024, underscores the administration’s commitment to repositioning critical sectors, including tourism, biosafety, and investment regulation.

The appointments, detailed in a statement by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, take effect in September 2025. They are designed to inject fresh expertise and innovation into these institutions, benefiting Nigerians.

Below is detailed information on the appointments

National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA): Bello Bawa Bwari from Niger State has been appointed Director-General for an initial four-year term starting September 18, 2025. This aligns with Section 5 of the NBMA Act, 2015, and aims to enhance biosafety protocols in light of growing agricultural and biotechnological advancements.

Investment and Securities Tribunal (IST): Hon. Barrister Aminu Junaidu, from Zamfara State, is the new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, serving a five-year tenure, effective September 18, 2025. His role will focus on strengthening investor confidence and efficiently resolving securities disputes.

Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC): Olayiwola Nurudeen Awakan has been appointed Director-General for a four-year term, effective September 2, 2025. This appointment is poised to revitalise Nigeria’s tourism sector by promoting cultural heritage, ecotourism, and international visitor growth, aligning with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

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The Presidency emphasised that these selections reflect President Tinubu’s vision for transformative leadership. “The appointees are urged to leverage their vast experience to drive innovation, efficiency, and sustainable growth in their agencies,” the statement noted. Stakeholders in tourism, in particular, anticipate accelerated initiatives such as digital marketing campaigns, infrastructure upgrades, and partnerships to position Nigeria as a top African destination.

This reshuffle comes at a pivotal time as Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy beyond oil, with tourism projected to contribute over $10 billion annually by 2030 through targeted reforms.

The NTDC is tasked with promoting Nigeria’s tourism potential, including cultural sites, eco-adventures, and festivals, to drive non-oil revenue. Olayiwola Nurudeen Awakan, a seasoned journalist from TVC News, brings media and communication expertise to the role, which is ideal for marketing Nigeria’s diverse attractions. His background in broadcasting could revolutionise how the agency engages global audiences.

Awakan’s appointment is timely, as Nigeria seeks to expand its tourism sector, which currently contributes approximately 3.6% to GDP but has the potential to reach 10% by 2030. His media savvy could launch targeted campaigns, such as digital promotions of sites like Yankari Game Reserve or the Osun-Osogbo Festival, attracting more international visitors and generating foreign exchange, potentially adding $10-15 billion annually through increased arrivals (targeting 10 million tourists by 2027).

Job Creation and Community Development: Enhanced tourism under Awakan could create over 2 million jobs in hospitality, crafts, and guiding, particularly in rural areas. By focusing on sustainable practices, the NTDC could empower local communities, preserving cultural heritage while reducing youth unemployment and poverty in states like Cross River and Lagos.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) And Answers

Who is the new Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC)?

Olayiwola Nurudeen Awakan has been appointed as the Director-General. He brings extensive experience in public administration and sector development, poised to lead initiatives that enhance Nigeria’s global tourism profile.

When does Olayiwola Awakan’s appointment as Director-General of the NTDC take effect, and what is the duration of his term?

The appointment is effective from September 2, 2025, for an initial four-year term. This aligns with standard provisions for NTDC leadership to ensure continuity and strategic planning.

How will this NTDC appointment impact Nigerian tourism?

We expect the move to accelerate tourism growth by prioritising digital promotion, infrastructure improvements, and international partnerships. Under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the initiative aims to increase visitor numbers, create jobs, and contribute to economic diversification, potentially adding billions to the country’s GDP.

What other federal agencies did President Tinubu’s recent appointments impact?

In addition to NTDC, appointments include Bello Bawa Bwari as Director-General of the National Biosafety Management Agency (effective September 18, 2025) and Hon. Barrister Aminu Junaidu as Chairman/CEO of the Investment and Securities Tribunal (also effective September 18, 2025): these target biosafety, investment security, and tourism sectors.

Why is this appointment significant for Nigeria’s economy?

Tourism is a key non-oil revenue stream for Nigeria. With Awakan at the helm, the NTDC can prioritise sustainable practices, cultural preservation, and marketing to attract more foreign investment and tourists, supporting the government’s goal of having a $1 trillion economy by 2030.