The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), South East Zone, extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Government and people of Enugu State on the successful hosting of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference. We warmly welcome the distinguished members of the Bar to Enugu, the Coal City, and to the South East.
In a statement signed by Wilson Uche Ugwu, Vice President (South East) of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), he praised the Enugu State Government for its bold and visionary efforts in transforming the state into a leading destination for tourism and investment.
“We particularly commend the Enugu State Government for its strategic initiatives and commitment to repositioning the state as a premier tourism and investment hub,” the statement read. “Key achievements include the completion of the world-class International Conference Centre (ICC), the revitalization of Nike Lake Resort, the transformation of the iconic Hotel Presidential Enugu, and the successful launch and sustained operation of Enugu Air.”
The establishment of Enugu Air has proven to be a game changer, significantly increasing flight frequencies in and out of Enugu. This has not only enhanced accessibility to the State but also made Enugu a more attractive gateway for conferences, business meetings, leisure travel, and international visitors. By accommodating more passengers and strengthening connectivity, Enugu Air is directly supporting the hospitality industry, driving visitor traffic, and boosting the overall tourism value chain across the South East.
The hosting of the Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference in Enugu is a landmark moment. It is not only one of the largest gatherings of legal professionals in Africa, but also a clear statement that Enugu and the South East have the capacity, hospitality, and infrastructure to successfully host high-profile national and international events. We deeply thank the President of the NBA, his executive team, and the entire planning committee for choosing the South East—particularly Enugu State for this historic convention. Their decision is a strong vote of confidence in Alaigbo as a preferred destination—welcoming, secure, and highly conducive for events of such scale and importance.
This recognition adds momentum to the South East’s growing reputation as a hub for tourism, business, and cultural exchange. Indeed, stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality industry are inspired by the opportunities these achievements have unlocked, reinforcing the region’s standing as a thriving destination with vast economic potential for Nigeria as a whole.
As our esteemed members of the Bar settle down to their deliberations, we encourage you to also take time to experience the serene charm, warm hospitality, and rich cultural heritage that the South East—and Enugu State in particular—proudly offer.
On behalf of the President of FTAN, Dr. Aliu Badaki, and all stakeholders across the South East, we say: Nnọọnu! Dee Jee! as we celebrate this milestone and warmly welcome our distinguished guests.
The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) is the umbrella body for the private sector in tourism and related businesses in Nigeria. Established in 1997 by the then Federal Ministry of Commerce and Tourism, FTAN facilitates collaboration between government agencies and the organized private sector to drive growth in Nigeria’s tourism industry.