Port Harcourt came alive with conversations on the future of tourism in Rivers State yesterday, 26th September 2026, as the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria, FTAN Rivers State, held its maiden ‘FTAN Hangout’ at Oasis Place, Elekahia Housing Estate, Port Harcourt.
The atmosphere was one of optimism and purpose as members, operators, and executives across the hospitality, travel, and culture value chain gathered for networking, dialogue, and direct engagement with government.
Dignitaries in attendance included the new Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mr. Freddy Ndigbara, who represented the state government and was received with warm applause by members. The event also had in attendance the President of FTAN Rivers State, Mrs. Tina Ogechi Ifeanyi-Ogbonna, and who is also the Managing Director of Ucan Travels & Tours Limited Port Harcourt, her presence added weight to the gathering of industry leaders.
In a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the National President of FTAN, Dr. Alhaji Aliyu Badaki, the President commended the Rivers chapter for taking the bold step to convene stakeholders.
“‘I congratulate FTAN Rivers State for this maiden hangout. This is the kind of synergy we need nationwide. Do not relent. Keep pushing until Rivers State achieves its full tourism potential,’” the message read.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Ndigbara highlighted specific tourism assets in the state, from riverine destinations to cultural festivals, and assured stakeholders that the Ministry has concrete plans it will be rolling out shortly.
“‘Government has plans that we will be rolling out shortly. FTAN should be ready to respond when the call comes to you. We cannot do this alone,’” he said.
The Permanent Secretary stressed that tourism must be driven as a business and not just as a cultural showcase, urging operators to professionalize their services and align with global standards.
Mr. Princewill of Igoni Travels, and Chairman of FTAN Rivers State, set the tone for the private sector contributions. He spotlighted key tourism assets across the state and called attention to one of the industry’s biggest pain points: security.
“‘I have personally engaged the Chairman of Andoni LGA and he made a promise to ensure security whenever there are tourists coming to the tourist sites in the LGA. We need more of such commitments across the state,’” Princewill stated.
He went further to appeal for improved infrastructure and logistics.
“‘Government should increase their effort in facilitating ease of movement. If tourists cannot move easily and safely, we will keep losing them to other destinations,’” he urged.
Lady Vera, MD of Verbon Travel & Tours, made a passionate appeal centered on product development in the state capital. She called for the creation of a dedicated space to promote Rivers culture and commerce.
“‘I plead with the Permanent Secretary for the setting up of a tourist village in Port Harcourt. It will serve as a hub for culture, crafts, food, and hospitality, and give visitors a reason to stay longer,’” Lady Vera said.
Responding to her, Mr. Ndigbara acknowledged the idea and gave assurance.
“‘That is a good proposal. In due time, that will be done too. We are looking at projects that will make Port Harcourt a true tourism city,’” he promised.
Mr. Renn Offor, CEO of Stars of the South Hospitality Limited, also addressed the Permanent Secretary, focusing on governance, access, and promotion of sites.
“‘We plead with government, as the representative of the people, to continue interfacing with tourism stakeholders and to demonstrate clear ownership of the tourist sites in the State in collaboration with LGAs and local leaders,’” Offor said.
He further suggested practical steps to market the state’s attractions.
“‘We should explore fam trips and proper documentation of tourist sites. If FTAN is helped by government to facilitate access to tourist sites for its meetings and engagements, our regular interface with stakeholders will be sustained and the results will be visible,’” he added.
Mr. Ndigbara, in his response, accepted government’s responsibility for site ownership but also shed light on the challenges of execution.
“‘Owning these sites comes with complex processes. From community engagement to funding and project approvals, there are layers we must go through. But we are committed,’” he explained.
The maiden FTAN Hangout was described by members as a success. It created the first structured platform in recent times for operators to speak directly with government, ask tough questions, and align on solutions for sales, service, security, and standards.
In his closing remarks, the FTAN Rivers State Chairman thanked all participants and said the association will circulate resolutions reached at the meeting. FTAN Rivers State also announced that the date for the second edition of the hangout will be communicated when it is decided.
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