Youth-Led Reform: Phil Roberts Adopted as FTAN Presidential Candidate, Promises Sector-Wide Transformation.
A pressure group has endorsed Ambassador Phil Roberts as its candidate for the upcoming Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) presidential elections. The group, operating under the hashtag #TheFTANWeWant, is rallying support for Roberts, citing his extensive experience in tourism promotion and his vision for a modern, youth-driven leadership.
FTAN, established in 1997 by the Federal Ministry of Commerce and Tourism, serves as the umbrella body for Nigeria’s private tourism sector. The group argues that Roberts, a dynamic youth advocate with a strong track record in Africa-China tourism relations, is the ideal candidate to reposition the federation for growth and global competitiveness.
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The movement emphasizes the need for a leadership shift in FTAN, advocating for innovation, investment, and stronger international partnerships. According to a spokesperson:
“This movement is not just about change. It’s a loud, collective declaration that the time has come for a modern, youth-led, purpose-driven leadership that reflects the dynamism and potential of Nigeria’s tourism industry.”
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The campaign has gained traction across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, with stakeholders pushing for structural reforms at FTAN’s forthcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM).
Roberts’ Vision for FTAN
Speaking after a stakeholder engagement at Transcorp Hilton Abuja, Amb. Phil Roberts expressed his readiness to lead FTAN into a new era. His campaign manifesto outlines ten key reforms:
- Healthcare Support for Tourism Practitioners – Launching a health and welfare scheme for industry professionals.
- Training & Certification for Tour Guides – Establishing regional training centers in partnership with global institutions.
- Funding Access for Stakeholders – Advocating for government and donor support for tourism-based MSMEs.
- Legislative Engagement & Policy Advocacy – Creating an FTAN liaison office in the National Assembly to influence tourism policies.
- Digital Transformation of FTAN – Developing a digital hub with a national tourism database and e-directory for members.
- International Strategic Partnerships – Expanding collaborations with UNWTO, AU, ECOWAS, and China-Africa platforms.
- Youth & Women Empowerment in Tourism – Implementing mentorship, training, and funding initiatives for youth and women.
- Revival of the National Tourism Calendar – Supporting state associations and annual events to boost domestic tourism.
- Tourism Diplomacy & Investment Promotion – Leveraging Roberts’ global network to attract investments and partnerships.
- Organizational Reform & Transparency – Strengthening governance, state chapters, and decision-making processes.
A New Era for Nigerian Tourism?
With the #TheFTANWeWant movement gaining momentum, the tourism sector is watching closely to see if Roberts’ vision will translate into transformative leadership for FTAN. His emphasis on youth inclusion, digital innovation, and international collaboration could redefine Nigeria’s tourism landscape.
