Otunba Runsewe, former Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) and the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), has praised the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) for recognizing the pivotal roles of the Association of Nigerian Journalists and Writers of Tourism (ANJET) and veteran travel writer Frank Meke in advancing Nigeria’s tourism sector.
In a press statement, Runsewe also extended congratulations to NANTA on its 50th anniversary, highlighting the association’s enduring contributions to tourism growth.
He commended NANTA’s appreciation of journalism’s power in tourism development: “I am very happy that a body like NANTA understands the role travel journalists play in developing and marketing a country as a destination. In Nigeria, I have been part of the industry for many years, and I know the key role journalism and travel journalists play in shaping perception and creating awareness for the sector’s growth. They craft narratives that inspire interest, grow the local economy, and boost businesses.”
Runsewe reflected fondly on his collaboration with ANJET: “For many years, ANJET has been dogged and resolute in pursuing Nigerian tourism’s growth. This understanding shaped my positive partnership with them while in office, putting Nigeria on the world tourism map. I am happy NANTA recognizes this and has honored them.”
He reserved special praise for Frank Meke, Managing Director of Cre8tive Naija Media Group: “For more than three decades, Meke has led tourism reporting in Nigeria. His reports and commentaries have fostered better understanding, shaped policies, and influenced key government positions.
Guided by knowledge and experience, he has been consistent in his writing and advocacy. I congratulate him and urge him to keep up the good work.”
ANJET and Meke were among honorees at NANTA’s 50th anniversary Annual General Meeting in Ibadan, Oyo State.
