The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) has reiterated the need for greater unity and professionalism among stakeholders in the tourism industry as it participated in the ongoing 2025 edition of the Things Fall Apart Festival (TFA) in Enugu.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the National President, Prince Adetunji Femi Fadina, Deputy President II of ATPN, Wilson Uche Ugwu, expressed gratitude to the organisers, The Centre for Memories – Ncheta Ndigbo, for the opportunity to be part of the cultural event.
“It is more than a privilege—it is a powerful affirmation of our shared commitment to preserving heritage, amplifying stories, and building bridges across cultures,” Ugwu said. “We are inspired by your work and remain grateful for the opportunity to contribute. Let us continue to journey together in shaping a more inclusive and memorable tourism narrative for Nigeria.”
The session featured discussions on key challenges affecting the growth of tourism in Nigeria, including poor infrastructure, fragmented policy implementation, and a lack of specialised professional training. Stakeholders, however, expressed optimism, highlighting viable solutions such as strengthening public-private partnerships, advancing policy advocacy, and launching coordinated capacity-building initiatives.
A major highlight of ATPN’s participation at the festival was the formal induction of new members into the association, marking a significant step in expanding its network of certified tourism professionals committed to ethical practices and industry excellence.
The ATPN delegation to the event included Wilson Uche Ugwu (Deputy President II), Hon. Onyekachi Atuloma Loveday (Vice President, South East), Lady Uzoma Ike (veteran hotel manager), Gregory Odiakosa (veteran media professional and author), Emmanuel Odama (Tour Buddy), Odinaka Ugwuozor (NZAPI), and Young Chimezirim Charles (producer and director). Their collective presence showcased ATPN’s commitment to inclusive leadership and collaborative development within the tourism ecosystem.
The Things Fall Apart Festival, hosted by The Centre for Memories – Ncheta Ndigbo, celebrates African storytelling, heritage, and resilience. It offers a platform where tradition meets innovation, and where the legacy of Chinua Achebe serves as inspiration for promoting cultural tourism and national development.
ATPN’s continued engagement at cultural events like TFA 2025 reinforces its mission to promote local destinations, empower tourism practitioners, and advocate policies that position tourism as a strategic driver of Nigeria’s economic and cultural growth.