Former Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) and the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Segun Runsewe, has commended the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA), for recognising the contributions of the Association of Nigerian Journalists and Writers of Tourism (ANJET) and veteran travel writer, Mr. Frank Meke, to Nigeria’s tourism growth.
In a statement, Runsewe also congratulated NANTA on its 50th anniversary, acknowledging the association’s role in advancing tourism in Nigeria.
‘I am very happy that a body like NANTA understands the role travel journalists play in developing and marketing a country as a destination,’ Runsewe said.
‘I have been part of the industry for many years, and I know the key role journalism plays in shaping perception and creating necessary awareness for sector growth.
‘Travel journalists craft narratives that inspire interest in a destination. Their work helps grow the local economy and boost businesses.’
He noted that ANJET has been ‘dogged and resolute’ in pursuing the growth of Nigerian tourism. ‘That understanding shaped my positive partnership with them while in office, and Nigeria was better for it. Together we positively put the country on the world tourism map. I am glad NANTA understands this and has honoured them,’ he said.
Runsewe singled out Frank Meke, Managing Director of Cre8tive Naija Media Group, for special praise. ‘For more than three decades, Meke has been at the forefront of tourism reporting in Nigeria. His reports and informed commentaries have deepened understanding of tourism and helped shape policies and key government positions in the industry.’
‘Guided by knowledge and experience, Meke has been consistent in his tourism writing and advocacy. I congratulate him for this recognition and urge him to keep up the good work,’ he added.