The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria has sought stronger collaboration with the University of Abuja to advance tourism development, with the proposed partnership expected to promote education, research, practical training and closer links between the University and the tourism industry.

The Federation's President, Dr Aliyu Badaki, made the call during a stakeholders' visit to the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi, on Tuesday in Abuja. The meeting focused on tourism education, infrastructure development, industry partnerships and the forthcoming Nigerian Tourism Investment Forum and Exhibition.

Badaki congratulated Fawehinmi on his appointment and commended the University's commitment to tourism and hospitality education. "We are here to congratulate you and assure you that FTAN is ready to collaborate with the institution to strengthen tourism and hospitality education," he stated.

He urged the University to expand practical training facilities and expose students to industry standards through stronger partnerships with private sector operators. Badaki also invited the Vice Chancellor and students to the Forum, scheduled for 30 and 31 July in Abuja.

Fawehinmi, responding, welcomed the proposed partnership, noting that the University was committed to strengthening tourism education, research and practical training. "We want you to continue to see the university as your partner. We are ready to work with FTAN for the benefit of our students and the industry," he said.

The Federation's Vice President for the North West Zone, Shehu Danfulani El Kabir, added that tourism exhibitions could help promote investment in the sector. The Federation's First Deputy President, Mrs Susan Akporiaye, disclosed that the event would attract governors, ministers and other high profile stakeholders, noting that Senator Ibrahim Ida would deliver the keynote address while the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, would host the event.

The Head of the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management at the University, Dr Elizabeth Babagbale, revealed that students without examinations during the event would be allowed to attend.

Also present at the meeting were the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Professor Muhammad Ndagi; Federation member and Glare Hospitality Managing Director, Joy Nyeso; ATPN General Secretary, Julie Tongrit; Federation Executive Secretary, Precious Okonji; and Director of Training and External Quality Assessment at ITPN, Elijah Dabak.