Nigeria, Emirates Airlines sign deal to promote inbound tourism
The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Emirates Airlines to promote inbound tourism to Nigeria. The agreement was formalized during the 2025 Arabian Travel Market in Dubai.
The partnership will leverage Emirates’ global network of over 140 destinations to spotlight Nigeria’s cultural heritage, natural attractions, and vibrant cities to international audiences. It aligns with the Ministry’s Destination 2030 Soft Power Initiative, part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at positioning Nigeria as a top cultural and leisure destination.
Speaking at the signing, Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa said the deal marks a pivotal step in achieving Nigeria’s tourism goals. “This partnership provides a platform to tell Nigeria’s story — a nation of extraordinary culture, natural wonders, and unrivalled hospitality,” she said.
Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s tourism. “Since resuming flights to Lagos in October 2024, we’ve prioritized deepening our partnerships in Nigeria. This MoU supports our vision of connecting more global travelers to Nigeria’s unique experiences,” he said.
The MoU outlines joint marketing efforts, familiarization trips for tour operators, trade incentives, and collaborative campaigns in key markets. The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) will coordinate the implementation as part of a broader strategy to revive the sector and boost the economy.
The agreement was signed by Emirates’ Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations, Adil Al Ghaith, and Special Assistant to the Minister on Sub-National Development and Tourism, Abiola Abdulkareem. It was witnessed by top officials from both parties.
Also present were Nigeria’s Consul General in Dubai, Zayyanu Ibrahim; the Minister’s Chief Adviser, Faiz Imam; Programme Director for Destination 2030, Boye Balogun; Emirates’ EVP, Passenger Sales, Nabil Sultan; and Country Director for Nigeria, Paulos Lagesse.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international collaborations, improving tourism infrastructure, and enhancing Nigeria’s global image as a preferred destination for culture and creativity.
