TOHO Africa has proudly presented the official Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 (TOHO100) physical recognition plaque to Dr. Olayiwola Awakan, Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), in recognition of his outstanding leadership and significant contribution to the growth and transformation of Nigeria’s tourism industry.
The plaque presentation celebrated Dr. Awakan’s continued efforts in advancing destination development, strengthening tourism policies, fostering industry collaboration, and promoting Nigeria as a competitive tourism destination within Africa and beyond. His leadership at the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority has contributed to initiatives aimed at enhancing domestic tourism, preserving cultural heritage, encouraging investment, and positioning tourism as a strategic pillar of national economic development.
Selected through TOHO Africa’s independent editorial research, industry assessment, and evaluation, Dr. Awakan was named one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 (TOHO100) for his measurable impact, visionary leadership, and commitment to advancing the tourism and hospitality sector.
The presentation of the physical recognition plaque reflects TOHO Africa’s commitment to honouring individuals whose work is creating lasting value across Africa’s tourism ecosystem. More than an award, the TOHO100 plaque symbolizes excellence, influence, innovation, and a legacy of service to one of the continent’s most important industries.
During the meeting, the TOHO Africa team also introduced TOHO Awards, the organisation’s forthcoming continental awards platform dedicated to recognizing excellence across tourism, hospitality, aviation, culture, recreation, and destination development. The discussion highlighted opportunities for greater collaboration in promoting Nigeria’s tourism potential and celebrating outstanding achievements across the African tourism industry.
As TOHO Africa continues to recognize the leaders shaping the future of tourism, the presentation of the TOHO100 plaque to Dr. Olayiwola Awakan stands as a celebration of visionary leadership and a reminder that transformative contributions to Africa’s tourism industry deserve lasting recognition.
Congratulations once again to Dr. Olayiwola Awakan, Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), on being recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026.
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