September 08, (THEWILL) – The highly anticipated 20th edition of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Africa’s leading tourism and hospitality event, is set to take place in Lagos, Nigeria. The major highlight of this year’s event is the 7th African Youth Tourism Bantaba, where Nigeria’s Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, will serve as the Special Guest of Honour. The Minister’s involvement underscores the Nigerian government’s dedication to youth empowerment and tourism development.
Ade-John, a strong advocate for sustainable tourism, will deliver the keynote address, focusing on the role of young Africans in shaping the future of tourism on the continent. The African Youth Tourism Bantaba has grown into one of the most important segments of the Akwaaba Travel Market, providing a platform for young tourism enthusiasts, students, and emerging professionals to interact with industry leaders, share ideas, and gain insights into the workings of the tourism and hospitality sectors. With Africa’s tourism industry projected to grow rapidly, this year’s Youth Bantaba will focus on “Activating The Youth Tourism Potentials of Africa, A Call To Duty”.
Ade-John’s participation as the Special Guest of Honour signals the Nigerian government’s support for youth engagement in tourism and its long-term vision for the industry’s role in economic development. Also, the famous Jollof Rice challenge will kick off on September 22, with chefs from top Hotels in Nigeria vying f.