The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has announced the postponement of the maiden edition of the Naija Flavour International Tourism Expo (NAFITOE) 2026, earlier scheduled for 21st and 22nd November 2026 in Abuja, to 2027. The decision, according to a statement by the Director General of NTDA, Ola Awakan, follows careful consideration of the prevailing national calendar and the increasingly demanding schedules of key dignitaries and stakeholders expected to participate in the event.
The statement reads: “The period initially scheduled for NAFITOE coincides with intensified national political and electoral activities, creating significant scheduling pressures and competing commitments for the Presidency, senior government officials, invited dignitaries and other key stakeholders.
“Given the importance being attached to NAFITOE as a National Tourism Expo, the NTDA considers it essential that the event is held at a time that will enable the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to graciously flag off the Expo. The new dates will therefore provide greater flexibility for the Presidency and other distinguished national and international dignitaries to participate fully in the event.
This will further strengthen the national character, visibility and impact of NAFITOE and reinforce the importance of tourism as a strategic instrument for economic diversification, job creation, investment attraction, cultural diplomacy and national development.
“The postponement will also provide the NTDA with additional time to further strengthen the programme, deepen stakeholder engagement, expand international participation and mobilise greater private-sector and institutional support, with the objective of delivering a significantly bigger and more impactful event in 2027. NAFITOE is conceived as an annual national and international platform to showcase Nigeria’s tourism destinations, cultural heritage, creative industries, investment opportunities and hospitality sector, while providing opportunities for international tourism cooperation, business-to-business engagement, investment matchmaking and destination promotion.
“The NTDA remains fully committed to the vision and objectives of NAFITOE and is confident that the additional planning period will enable the maiden edition to be delivered at the scale and standard that the Nigerian tourism industry deserves.
The Authority appreciates the support, enthusiasm and commitment already demonstrated by State Governments, international partners, tourism stakeholders, private-sector organisations, exhibitors, sponsors and other partners towards NAFITOE 2026.
All stakeholders are assured that the postponement is intended to strengthen the event, broaden participation and ensure that NAFITOE 2027 is launched as a truly significant national tourism platform with the desired international visibility and impact.
The new dates and further details regarding the programme and participation arrangements will be communicated in due course.
The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority looks forward to welcoming all stakeholders to NAFITOE 2027 – a bigger, stronger and more impactful National Tourism Expo celebrating Nigeria’s tourism potential and positioning the country as a leading destination for tourism, investment and cultural experiences.”
