MTN Nigeria becomes headline sponsor for 20th AKWAABA

MTN Nigeria has partnered with the AKWAABA African Travel Market, as its headline sponsor for the 20th anniversary, slated to hold from Sept. 22 to 24.

The strategic collaboration marks MTN’s first-ever participation in the prestigious event, reinforcing its commitment to driving growth and progress across Africa through technology.

This is contained in a statement by Mr Ikechi Uko, Organiser of AKWAABA African Travel Market, in Lagos, on Saturday.

Uko said as the headline sponsor, MTN Nigeria would lead strategic engagements to underscore its transformation from a traditional telecoms provider, to a comprehensive technology solutions leader, dedicated to revolutionising business operations across various sectors.

He said with an extensive portfolio designed to meet the evolving needs of MSMEs, large enterprises, and the public sector, MTN Nigeria offered innovative technologies that would enhance operational efficiency, streamline processes, and drive organisational success.

“This partnership signals a new chapter in empowering African businesses within the hospitality sector, with technology at the forefront of increased productivity and impact.

“The 20th edition of the Akwaaba African Travel Market, set to commence on Sunday, Sept. 22, will feature in-depth discussions on transitioning Africa’s travel and tourism industry from traditional models to a technology-driven economy.

“MTN Nigeria will contribute its technological expertise to the event by providing a panel of distinguished experts over the three-day period.

“Notable MTN representatives include Ifeanyi Otudoh, Senior Manager of Converged Solutions; Joshua Chijioke, Head of Business Development at Chenosis; Omowunmi Olatunbosun, Head of SME Segments, Enterprise Business; Akinbulejo Onabolu, Head of Public Sector and Large Enterprise; and Bayo Omomowo, Head of Information Technology, MoMo PSB,” he said.

According to him, the conference segment of the expo will feature an impressive lineup of esteemed speakers from across Africa.

He said the speakers included Davidson Mugisha from Rwanda, Dr Adama Bah from The Gambia, Ahmed Naaman from Ghana, and Nigerian entertainment mogul, Edi Lawani.

He noted that Humphrey Geiseb, Namibian Ambassador to Nigeria, will also be in attendance.

“On Monday, Sept. 23, the Africa Travel 100 Awards for Global Leaders in Tourism, will recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals shaping Africa’s travel landscape.

“The famous Jollof Rice War will also open the expo on Sunday, while Tuesday’s Youth Tourism Session will welcome special guest, Mrs. Lola Ade-John, Nigeria’s Minister of Tourism.

“The event will conclude on Tuesday, Sept. 24, with the Lagos Day Celebrations, where the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, will highlight the state’s rich tourism assets.

“The closing ceremony will include the prestigious, Fatima Garbati Tourism Outreach Grant, a N5 million grant awarded to young tour operators and tourism departments, underscoring the event’s commitment to fostering growth and innovation in the sector.

“MTN Nigeria’s involvement in Akwaaba 2024 underscores its mission to lead through technology, enabling industries to thrive in an increasingly digital world,” he said.