Nigeria’s tourism, travel and creative industries are set to take centre stage as the second edition of the WelcometoNigeria Expo (WtNEx) 2026 holds in Abuja from October 20 to 21, bringing together industry stakeholders to explore investment opportunities, partnerships and strategies for tourism development.
The two-day event will take place at NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja, under the theme, “Global Perspective of Nigeria Tourism Master Plan: Infrastructure Development, Sub-sectoral Growth and Economic Prosperity.” The theme highlights infrastructure development and growth across tourism-related industries as important considerations in efforts to expand the sector’s contribution to the economy.
The expo will bring together stakeholders from tourism, travel, hospitality, aviation, transport, maritime, the blue economy, arts, culture and the creative industries. Expected participants include travel agents, tour operators, hoteliers, destination managers, airlines, investors, creatives and representatives of relevant government ministries, departments and agencies.
Organised under the Welcome2Nigeria Project, the event aims to provide a platform for businesses and public-sector institutions to showcase their services, establish partnerships and explore opportunities for investment. The organisers say the gathering is intended to strengthen collaboration between public- and private-sector stakeholders and facilitate business connections across the tourism value chain.
National Coordinator of the Welcome2Nigeria Project and President of Welcome2Nigeria Limited, Isa Yusuf Sago, said the expo would encourage collaboration and open up business opportunities for participants. The event is supported by the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy.
Tourism development involves several interconnected sectors, including transportation, accommodation, cultural attractions and destination management. Discussions around infrastructure and sub-sectoral growth are therefore expected to provide a framework for stakeholders to examine opportunities and challenges affecting businesses across the industry.
As the expo approaches, attention will be on the partnerships established, investment opportunities explored and practical ideas generated during the two-day engagement. The event is scheduled to hold on October 20 and 21 at NICON Luxury Hotel in Abuja.
Deborah Adeyefa
