Abuja: The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) is set to host the maiden edition of ‘Naija Flavour: Destination December’, an innovative initiative to showcase the nation’s rich tourism and creative sector. Mr. Olayiwola Awakan, Director-General of NTDA, made the announcement at an unveiling news conference in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the tourism fiesta is slated to hold on Dec. 13, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The event will showcase the nation’s rich cultural identity, including cuisine, attire, music, craft, and the entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerians. Awakan highlighted the celebration of cultural flavours, creativity, and tourism as an economic driver under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Awakan emphasized that the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda focuses on economic growth, creative industry expansion, SME development, and sustainable value creation. He mentioned that ‘Naija Flavour’ has been conceptualized to generate wealth, empower local businesses, strengthen the creative economy, and build a sustainable tourism experience. On Dec. 13, Abuja will host a marketplace featuring culture, entrepreneurship, food, fashion, games, a musical concert, and live theatre.
To enhance the tourism experience, the event will include a theatrical production titled ‘Echoes of the Drums.’ Awakan revealed that the play is written by him, directed by renowned thespian Isioma Williams, and produced through a strategic NTDA collaboration with the Guild of Theatre Arts Drummers (GOTHAD). The initiative aims to use theatre as a tool for tourism storytelling and cultural preservation.
Awakan called on SMEs and creative entrepreneurs to participate in the project to showcase their creativity and craft. He stressed that SMEs are the engine driving tourism revenue and that ‘Naija Flavour’ provides these businesses with visibility, access, and platforms to thrive.
The event will be held in collaboration with stakeholders such as The Monoliza Abuja, the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, the National Troupe of Nigeria, The Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation, the National Film and Video Censors Board, The Guild of Theatre Arts Drummers, and Yankee Entertainment. Awakan announced that after the maiden edition, subsequent ones will be held in the six geopolitical zones.