Dr. Alex Nwuba Advocates for Aviation-Tourism Synergy

The 22nd Akwaaba African Travel Market concluded on September 15, 2026, in Lagos, where aviation and tourism experts convened to explore strategies for developing these sectors, which are significant for job creation. Key discussions included promoting intra-African travel, regional tourism integration, and domestic tourism development.

Stakeholders focused on improving air access, reducing airfares, and enhancing transport networks to lessen dependence on international tourists. Dr. Alex Nwuba, President of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Nigeria (AOPA), emphasized the aviation sector's role in economic growth through increased visitor arrivals and called for African governments to align aviation policies with tourism objectives.

He also addressed the issue of high aviation fuel costs impacting ticket prices. Abdoulie Jobe, the Gambian Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, advocated for effective policies to encourage intra-African travel, stressing the need for Africa to become its own tourism marketplace.