Nearly 90 members of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) have been officially certified as Gambia Tourism Destination Specialists following a four-day intensive training programme hosted by the Gambia Institute of Tourism and Hospitality.
The training covered key areas including sales and marketing, destination management, market penetration strategies, emerging global tourism trends, and strategic skills for enhancing regional and intra-African tourism and commerce.
It also featured a field-based practicum offering firsthand exposure to The Gambia’s tourism assets.
The certification ceremony, held in Banjul, was supervised by Hon. Alieu Baldeh, a member of the Gambian Parliament’s Tourism Committee, with the support of NANTA President Yinka Folami.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Baldeh praised the commitment of the Nigerian delegates, many of whom were visiting the country for the first time, and expressed the Gambian government’s appreciation for their engagement.
“We are happy to welcome you here and impressed by your seriousness throughout the training. The Gambian Government cannot thank NANTA’s leadership enough for bringing you to the Smiling Coast of Africa”.
“Cultural tourism is a key part of our economy, and with your help, we believe Gambia can become a household name in Nigeria and across the continent.”
He also extended assurances of continued support from both the Gambian government and Parliament, encouraging the newly certified specialists to use their knowledge to strengthen ties between the two countries.
NANTA President Yinka Folami emphasized the role of continuous professional development in the ever-evolving tourism landscape.
He urged the new specialists to apply the knowledge gained actively, rather than treating the certification as a mere credential.
“Do not hide your certificates in cupboards or display them on walls without action. Let this training inspire you to contribute meaningfully to the tourism and commerce partnership between Nigeria and The Gambia.”
The NANTA delegation is scheduled to depart Banjul for Nigeria tonight aboard Air Peace, the official carrier for the association’s training expedition.
