Broadening horizons, Nigeria and Gambia are reimaging African tourism to enhance its economic and cultural benefits. Yunus Saliu reports.
As borders blur through travel and technology, the International Travel and Tourism Conference (ITTC) held in Gambia recently highlighted a future where tourism becomes a powerful force for economic integration and cultural pride.
At the heart of the tranquil Tamala Resort in Kotu, The Gambia, a new chapter in African tourism unfolded. From the rhythmic sounds of cultural performances to the exchange of ideas among industry trailblazers, the ITTC was more than a meeting but classified as a movement, a roadmap to achieving economic and cultural integration.
The two-day summit (28 and 29 May 2025), organised by the Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard) and the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), brought together travel professionals, government leaders, and cultural ambassadors under one powerful theme: unity through tourism.
The event stood as a proud testament to ongoing collaborations between The Gambia and Nigeria – two nations rich in history, heritage and hospitality. The event built on the momentum of earlier initiatives, including a successful Familiarization (FAM) Trip in Nigeria and a high-level outreach mission from Gambian tourism leadership to their Nigerian counterparts.
The ITTC Summit stands as a proud testament to ongoing collaborations between The Gambia and Nigeria – two nations rich in history, heritage and hospitality.
A warm Gambian welcome
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Abdoulie Jobe, Permanent Secretary Amie Njie-Joof delivered an impassioned address that set the tone for the summit.
“This gathering is the result of high-level engagements and strategic partnerships,” she stated, welcoming attendees to the ‘Smiling Coast of Africa’.
The ITTC was not merely a diplomatic event but “a milestone in the annals” of the Gambian tourism sector, she said.
She underscored the human-centred nature of tourism in The Gambia, where cultural exchange, warmth, and hospitality form the bedrock of visitor experiences. Her invitation extended beyond the conference hall, encouraging delegates to explore historical gems like Kunta Kinteh Island and the WASSU Stone Circles, and to indulge in culinary delights such as Benechin, Domoda, and The Gambia’s famous mangoes.
Yet Njie-Joof did not shy away from the realities reshaping the tourism landscape. She acknowledged the rapid pace of technological innovation and the rising environmental challenges confronting the industry. “We must strategically collaborate,” she urges, “to adapt and reposition African tourism on a globally competitive footing.”
Despite the shifting terrain, her message was one of optimism and inclusion: “Travel agencies remain pivotal in the tourism ecosystem. Your expertise and networks are essential for our shared growth.”
Celebrating friendship and cultural synergy
Also addressing the gathering was Sheriff Conteh, Deputy Director General of the Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute (GTHI). His words carried the warmth and pride of a host welcoming close friends.
“This summit marks the culmination of a journey of friendship and collaboration,” Mr Conteh reflected. “We hope that what you gain in knowledge here is matched by the memories you take home of our culture and hospitality.”
From spirited speeches to shared meals, the summit was rich with the flavours of pan-African connection. Notable figures such as Malleh Sallah, CEO of Djeliba Leisure Group, and Yinka Folami, President of NANTA, echoed the call for deeper regional alliances. Representatives from the Nigerian High Commission to The Gambia reinforced the diplomatic importance of such cultural exchanges.
More than a summit
What unfolded in Kotu was not simply a conference, but a celebration of African unity, resilience, and vision. As borders blur through travel and technology, the summit highlighted a future where tourism becomes a powerful force for economic integration and cultural pride.
The NANTA Gambia Summit 2025 showed that when two nations collaborate, they don’t just exchange travellers; they share stories, strengthen economies and deepen bonds.
About NANTA
Founded in 1973, the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) stands as the collective voice of all travel agencies operating in Nigeria. Registered as a non-profit and non-governmental organization, NANTA plays a crucial role in aligning the needs of travel agents with those of airlines and regulators, while promoting a vision of sustainable and inclusive tourism.
