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The Association of Nigerian Journalists and Writers of Tourism (ANJET) has unveiled plans for its 2025 annual awards themed “Celebrating Institutional Memory and Legacy,” aimed at honouring distinguished individuals and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality industry.
The event, slated for October 23 at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, will spotlight both historic and contemporary figures whose work has shaped the nation’s tourism landscape.
Speaking on Creative Nigeria, a cultural tourism programme on Mainland 98.3 FM, ANJET President Okorie Uguru said the awards are designed to “reward and celebrate individuals and institutions who have contributed to tourism development in Nigeria.”
Uguru highlighted the significance of this year’s edition, which coincides with Sheraton Lagos Hotel’s 40th anniversary – a milestone that reflects the evolution of Nigeria’s hospitality sector since the hotel opened its doors in 1985.
“Sheraton took the risk at a time when international hospitality brands were rare in Nigeria. Forty years later, it stands as a model for excellence and consistency,” Uguru noted.
Among the honourees are Ambassador Frank Ogbuewu, former Minister of Tourism under President Olusegun Obasanjo, and Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, former Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, who will receive the Nigeria Pillars of Tourism and Culture Award for his remarkable contributions to the nation’s cultural renaissance.
Other recipients include Chief Abimbola Bode Thomas, veteran tour operator Mr. Jamie Alade, La Campagne Tropicana founder Otunba Wanle Akinboboye, and Ganiyu Tarzan Balogun, CEO of Tarzan Marine Enterprises, recognized for his impact on water transport and tourism.
Uguru, who also publishes Africa Travel Herald, described ANJET as “an archive of society,” emphasizing the association’s role in preserving Nigeria’s tourism history through storytelling and reportage.
He commended private sector partners and individuals who have supported ANJET’s vision, while calling for greater government participation to strengthen the tourism value chain.
“ANJET has existed for over three decades, with members spanning print, electronic, and online media. Our focus remains on promoting Nigeria’s tourism narrative and inspiring progress,” he added.
Meanwhile, Chief Raymond Gold of the Waterfront Boat Owners and Transporters Association of Nigeria (WABOTAN), speaking at the launch of the OminBus Boat project by LASWA, lauded the Lagos State Government for integrating waterways into the city’s transport network. He called for government collaboration to support boat maintenance and upgrade, citing the sector’s role in easing traffic and promoting tourism.
