Gambia Beckons: NANTA’s Elite Training Squad Heads to Banjul

A high-powered delegation of over 90 Nigerian travel professionals is embarking on a groundbreaking training mission to The Gambia, poised to reshape the landscape of African tourism. Spearheaded by the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), this intensive program boasts a faculty of world-renowned experts, promising an unparalleled learning experience for participants.

Leading the charge is Fatou Mas Jobe, The Gambia’s former Minister of Tourism and a global authority on resort management and tourism funding. Ms. Jobe’s impressive track record includes spearheading a \$12 million World Bank marketing project that drove a remarkable surge in tourist arrivals to The Gambia, reaching an unprecedented 500,000 visitors. Her expertise in securing funding and innovative management strategies will be invaluable to NANTA members seeking to elevate their businesses.

Joining Ms. Jobe is Dr. Adama Bah, Director and Chairman of the Institute of Travel and Tourism of The Gambia. With over four decades of experience, Dr. Bah is a cornerstone of the Gambian tourism sector and a founding member of the Association of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in Tourism (ASSET). His deep understanding of the industry's nuances will provide participants with practical insights into sustainable tourism development.

Rounding out the faculty is Mr. Mutiu Kolawole Ambali, lead lecturer and head of the Tourism and Hospitality Department at the University of The Gambia. Mr. Ambali’s Master’s degree in Tourism Development and extensive experience in hospitality management will equip participants with the latest knowledge and best practices in the field.

This one-week training program, commencing Monday, May 26th, is more than just a skills enhancement course; it's a strategic investment in the future of African tourism. The Gambia, with its burgeoning tourism sector, offers a dynamic backdrop for this transformative initiative. Recent developments in community-based tourism, niche market growth, and infrastructure improvements signal a bright future for the country's travel industry. This positive trajectory is further bolstered by a projected increase in tourist arrivals, estimated to reach 1.06 million by 2028.

The program aligns perfectly with NANTA’s long-standing commitment to professional development within the travel and tourism industry. The association’s nearly five-decade history is marked by numerous successful training initiatives, including the Capacity Development and Accreditation Program, the Travel Agency Foundation Training (TAFT), and nationwide training for IATA certification. This latest venture in The Gambia underscores NANTA’s dedication to equipping its members with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a competitive global market.

The partnership with Airpeace, Nigeria’s largest local carrier, for this expedition further strengthens the initiative's impact. It not only facilitates seamless travel for the participants but also symbolizes a collaborative spirit within the African travel industry. This collaboration is crucial for fostering growth and promoting intra-African travel.

The potential economic impact of this training program is substantial. With each of the 90 participants potentially influencing an average of 500 clients, the program's reach could extend to 45,000 individuals. Furthermore, the projected return on investment from initiatives like the World Bank project, coupled with the multiplier effect of professional training, could generate significant economic benefits for Nigeria's travel sector.

This training program is not merely an educational exercise; it's a catalyst for growth, innovation, and collaboration within the African travel industry. By empowering Nigerian travel professionals with cutting-edge knowledge and global best practices, NANTA is paving the way for a more vibrant and prosperous future for tourism in Africa.