HATMAN@20: TOURISM LEADERS CHAMPION AI-DRIVEN INNOVATION, PRIVATE SECTOR INFLUENCE AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT IN AWKA.

 

Dr. Lilian Managwu, HATMAN President.

Awka, Anambra State | October 22, 2026

The Hospitality and Tourism Management Association of Nigeria (HATMAN) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing innovation, professional excellence and digital transformation in Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry following the successful hosting of its 20th International Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Awka, Anambra State.

The conference, held at Chicotel Classique Hotel Limited, focused on the theme, “Artificial Intelligence and the Digital Agenda: Implications for Global Transformation in Hospitality and Tourism.” It brought together industry leaders, government representatives, tourism professionals, academics, students and other stakeholders to explore the opportunities presented by emerging technologies.

In her goodwill message, the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, represented by the Director, Domestic tourism Department, Mr. Bisong, congratulated HATMAN on reaching the milestone of 20 international conferences, describing it as evidence of the Association’s resilience and sustained contribution to the development of Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sector.

The Minister emphasised that tourism remains an important driver of economic diversification, employment generation, enterprise development and cultural promotion. She reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to improving tourism infrastructure, attracting private-sector investment, strengthening human capital and leveraging technology to enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness as a tourism destination.

She also stressed the importance of collaboration among government, professional associations, private-sector operators, academia and local communities, noting that sustainable tourism development requires collective commitment and inclusive participation.

zSpeaking at the conference, the Chairman of HATMAN’s Board of Trustees and President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Dr. Badaki Aliyu, described artificial intelligence and digital technology as important tools for improving service delivery, expanding market access, reducing operational costs and positioning Nigerian hospitality and tourism businesses for global competitiveness.

Dr. Aliyu congratulated HATMAN’s leadership and members on sustaining the conference for two decades, commending the Association for providing a platform for professional development, knowledge exchange and industry collaboration.

FTAN ADVOCATES STRONGER PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION IN TOURISM POLICY

A major highlight of Dr. Aliyu’s address was his call for greater recognition of the organised private sector in tourism policy formulation and implementation.

He maintained that tourism policies and regulations would be more effective when informed by the practical experiences of the businesses and professionals directly affected by them.

According to him, FTAN continues to engage relevant government institutions on policy and regulatory issues, including the implementation and harmonisation of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) Act 2022 and the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) Act 2022.

He clarified that FTAN’s advocacy is not opposed to regulation but seeks clear institutional responsibilities, appropriate regulatory frameworks, improved professionalism and an enabling environment for investment and enterprise growth.

“Tourism policies must be developed with the industry, not merely for the industry,” Dr. Aliyu emphasised, calling on government to recognise the organised private sector as a strategic partner in national tourism development.

He further urged HATMAN and other tourism associations to strengthen their collective engagement with FTAN, stressing that a united and professionally organised private sector would be better positioned to influence policy and advance the interests of the industry.

HATMAN INVESTS IN THE NEXT GENERATION OF TOURISM PROFESSIONALS

The 20th International Conference and AGM followed HATMAN’s .20th Student International Conference, held from October 20 to 21, 2026, at the same venue.

The student conference, themed “AI-Driven Hospitality and Tourism: Equipping the Next Generation for Digital Transformation and Global Competitiveness,” provided a platform for students and other stakeholders to exchange ideas, develop professional skills, explore technological innovations and build valuable industry connections.

A major attraction was the Mr. and Miss HATMAN Contest, which showcased the confidence, intelligence, creativity and talents of participating students. Federal Polytechnic Nekede emerged as the winner of the contest, earning commendation from the Association.

HATMAN expressed appreciation to the participating institutions, lecturers, students, sponsors, partners and conference organisers for their contributions to the success of the programme.

The successful student conference underscored HATMAN’s commitment to preparing young Nigerians for emerging opportunities in the hospitality and tourism sector, particularly as artificial intelligence and digital technologies continue to reshape industry operations.

A UNITED FRONT FOR TOURISM TRANSFORMATION

Both conferences reinforced the need for stronger partnerships among government institutions, professional associations, educational institutions, investors, technology providers and tourism operators.

Dr. Aliyu urged HATMAN to translate the knowledge and recommendations generated at the conference into practical programmes that would benefit its members and the wider industry.

He emphasised that progress should be measured not merely by conferences held or policies announced, but by tangible outcomes in investment, employment, professional development and business growth.

As Nigeria seeks to strengthen its position in the global tourism market, HATMAN’s 20th International Conference and AGM represents another opportunity to advance professional excellence, embrace technological innovation and promote a more coordinated approach to tourism development.

The Association reaffirmed its commitment to building a digitally prepared workforce, supporting hospitality and tourism enterprises, empowering young professionals and working with FTAN and relevant government institutions to advance the industry.

HATMAN at 20: Celebrating professional excellence, embracing digital transformation and shaping the future of Nigerian tourism.