Tourism Stakeholders Unite Behind Amb. Phil Roberts to Reform FTAN

By Mohammed Bello Doka 

A new chapter has opened in Nigeria’s tourism sector as stakeholders across the country rally behind the vibrant #TheFTANWeWant movement — a bold campaign for generational change in the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN).

Launched during a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held at Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, the movement represents a unified call for visionary, youth-driven leadership within the federation. At the heart of this transformative push is Ambassador Phil Roberts, a seasoned global tourism expert, who was unanimously elected as the project lead and preferred presidential candidate ahead of the upcoming FTAN Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Amb. Roberts, who holds international recognition as Nigeria’s Global Tourism Ambassador, brings decades of hands-on experience from global tourism markets, especially across Asia. His exposure to tourism development models, public-private partnerships, and global policy integration gives him a distinct edge to reposition Nigeria’s tourism industry for innovation and international competitiveness.

“We are ready for a new era,” Amb. Roberts told journalists. “We need leadership that understands both policy and practice, one that empowers practitioners and drives real growth through professionalism and inclusivity.”

The #TheFTANWeWant campaign isn’t just a slogan — it’s a roadmap for real reform. Under Amb. Roberts’ leadership, the movement has unveiled a comprehensive 10-point agenda to reposition FTAN and restore its core values of structure, transparency, and member empowerment:

Highlights of the Reform Agenda:

  1. Healthcare Support: Launch of a welfare scheme for tourism operators and entrepreneurs.
  2. Professional Training: Establishment of regional certification centers for tour guides and destination managers.
  3. Stakeholder Funding: Advocacy for government and donor-backed financial access for MSMEs.
  4. Legislative Lobbying: A permanent FTAN liaison office within the National Assembly.
  5. Digital Hub Creation: A national tourism data bank, member directory, and integrated tech tools.
  6. Global Partnerships: Strategic ties with UNWTO, AU, ECOWAS, China-Africa platforms, etc.
  7. Youth & Women Empowerment: Mentorship, funding access, and leadership inclusion frameworks.
  8. Tourism Calendar Revival: Coordinated state tourism events and festivals.
  9. Investment Promotion: Leverage of global contacts to attract investors into Nigeria’s tourism sector.
  10. Organizational Reform: Transparent, inclusive systems with stronger state-level participation.

The momentum is building, with stakeholders from all six geopolitical zones already pledging their support. With his charisma, international network, and practical expertise, Amb. Phil Roberts is widely viewed as the right man to lead FTAN into a modern era of professionalism and purpose.

As the 2025 FTAN elections approach, the message from tourism professionals is clear: The time for transformational leadership is now.

Join the Movement
📧 Email: [email protected]
📢 Hashtag: #TheFTANWeWant

Project Lead:
Amb. Phil Roberts, FCISM, FIHSD
Nigeria’s Global Tourism Ambassador
FTAN Presidential Aspirant – 2025

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