Ejiro Efenudu
Enugu will transform into a hub of culture, creativity, and conversation with a rich line-up of activities as Nigeria joins the rest of the world to celebrate World Tourism Day on Saturday, September 27, 2025. With this year’s global theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” the celebration promises not just entertainment, but a bold statement on how tourism can drive economic growth, preserve heritage, and shape a greener future.
The event is being organized by the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), South East Zone, in partnership with the Enugu State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), and the Nigerian Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR).
A Global Celebration with Local Flavor
World Tourism Day is marked annually across the globe to highlight the social, cultural, political, and economic value of tourism. This year’s theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, reflects the growing recognition of tourism’s role in advancing sustainable development, creating jobs, and preserving heritage.
In Enugu, the celebration will bring together stakeholders from government, the private sector, creative industries, academia, and the media. Organizers say the choice of Enugu as the kick-off point underscores the city’s growing importance as a cultural and tourism hub in the South East.
Line-up of Activities
According to the schedule released by the Vice President of FTAN South East, Mr. Wilson Uche Ugwu, the celebration will kick off at 10:00 AM in Enugu. Attendees can expect a variety of engaging and interactive activities, including:
- Guided Tours of notable cultural and tourism landmarks in Enugu
- Media Visits to strengthen partnerships with the press
- World Press Conference highlighting Nigeria’s tourism agenda
- Cultural and Creative Showcases featuring performances, exhibitions, and art displays
- Special Activities designed to spotlight innovation in tourism and hospitality
Stakeholder Support
The celebration enjoys the support of several local and regional partners, including AfiaTV, Signature TV, Urban Radio, Solid FM, Vicraft Media, Ubuntu Elite, N Gallery, Bona Gallery, and Life in My City.
These organizations are expected to play key roles in amplifying the message of sustainable tourism and ensuring the event reaches wider audiences both within and outside the region.
Embracing Heritage and Transformation
FTAN officials say the South East Zone is particularly proud to host the 2025 edition, stressing that cultural heritage, if well harnessed, can serve as a strong driver of economic growth and community transformation.
Speaking ahead of the event, stakeholders emphasized that sustainable tourism goes beyond entertainment. It is about empowering communities, protecting cultural assets, creating employment opportunities, and encouraging investments in eco-friendly initiatives.
The Enugu State Ministry of Culture and Tourism added that the collaboration reflects the government’s commitment to positioning the state as a leading tourism destination in Nigeria.
Why It Matters
As Nigeria and other nations continue to explore strategies for diversifying their economies, tourism is increasingly being recognized as a sector with immense potential. Beyond contributing to GDP, tourism fosters unity, promotes cultural understanding, and provides platforms for innovation in creative industries.
By aligning with the global theme, Enugu’s celebration of World Tourism Day 2025 seeks to remind participants and partners alike that tourism is not just about travel and leisure, but about driving meaningful change.
Looking Ahead
With the expected influx of visitors, media coverage, and cultural showcases, the event is set to leave a lasting impact on Enugu’s tourism landscape. Organizers hope it will inspire further collaborations across Nigeria and strengthen the South East’s role in shaping the future of tourism in the country.
As the world gathers to celebrate, Enugu is positioning itself not just as a host city but as a symbol of how tourism can power sustainable transformation.
