NTDA BOSS UNVEILS SMART TOURISM HUB PLAN AT OOU

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The Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, Ola Awakan, has announced plans to establish a smart tourism hub at Olabisi Onabanjo University, as part of efforts to promote innovation and drive economic diversification through tourism.

Awakan disclosed this during a visit to his alma mater in Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, where he was received by the Vice-Chancellor, Ayodeji Agboola, and members of the university’s management team.

During the visit, the NTDA boss toured key facilities, including the institution’s upgraded Information and Communication Technology Centre, which he described as one of the largest in the country. He also visited the Department of Performing Arts, where students staged an excerpt from his play, Echoes of the Drums, in his honour.

Speaking on the proposed project, Awakan explained that the smart tourism hub would provide virtual access to tourist destinations across Nigeria, while serving as a platform for learning, innovation, and revenue generation.

According to him, the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s push for economic diversification.

“As you know, the President has emphasised diversification as the way forward for the economy. Tourism remains one of the most viable alternatives to oil, and many countries have transformed their economies through it,” he said.

Awakan added that the authority plans to collaborate with the university and other institutions to develop tourism-focused academic programmes aimed at boosting employment and sectoral growth.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting his alma mater, noting that the partnership would extend beyond the proposed hub.

“This is about contributing to an institution that has shaped my journey,” he said.

In his remarks, Agboola described Awakan as a worthy ambassador of the university and commended his contributions to national development. He noted that the smart tourism hub would open up new opportunities for students and better prepare them for life after graduation.

“It is a great privilege to welcome the Director-General back to campus. We are proud of his achievements and what he represents,” the vice-chancellor said.

Highlight of the visit was the conferment of the Great Ambassador Award on Awakan by the university’s Department of Mass Communication, in recognition of his professional accomplishments and contributions to the institution.

The visit underscored the importance of alumni engagement in fostering institutional development and advancing Nigeria’s tourism sector.