The Africa-International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC-World) has unveiled plans to make Nigeria, particularly Abuja, the epicentre of Africa’s tourism and economic revival.
The global initiative, which has its headquarters in Cotonou, Benin Republic, is set to officially launch its operations in Nigeria on Thursday, August 14, 2025, with a high-level event scheduled in Abuja.
Speaking at a media briefing ahead of the launch in Abuja, AITEC-World’s Vice President for Communications and International Relations, Kazeem Balogun, described the event as a historic moment for the continent and a bold step for Nigeria.
“The aim is to position Nigeria as the centre of tourism in Africa. Abuja will become a major destination where people from across the world will troop in. This will significantly boost the local economy through tourism, investment, and cultural exchange,” Balogun said.
The event is expected to convene policymakers, diplomats, development partners, creatives, and youth leaders under the theme: “Tourism for Economic Advancement: From Africa to the World.”
According to Balogun, AITEC-World’s choice of Nigeria for the launch despite its headquarters being in Cotonou underscores the country’s strategic relevance, bolstered by its large population, cultural diversity, and vibrant youth demographic.
He said the council’s framework is anchored on six strategic pillars, including enhancing Africa’s global tourism brand, improving intra-continental mobility and connectivity, and promoting sustainable, inclusive development.
“Our mission is to create a high-impact platform where tourism becomes more than just leisure it becomes a conduit for trade, investment, education, innovation, culture, peace, and human connection,” he said.
Balogun emphasised that AITEC-World is designed to foster strategic bilateral and multilateral partnerships between Africa and the global community, offering practical solutions to pressing economic challenges.
He added: “We are building a transformative institution that will unleash the full potential of tourism as a growth engine and a unifying force for Africa’s development.”
