In a move set to reshape the regional landscape for Nigeria’s travel practitioners, the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) Western Zone has officially ushered in a new era of leadership.
During a high-stakes zonal election held at the historic National Museum of Unity in Ibadan, Prince Olaleye Abiodun Ajibade emerged as the Zonal Vice President, pledging a tenure defined by professionalism and industry growth.
The election was characterized by rigorous oversight and a credible turnout from the regional travel community. Out of 156 registered voters, 72 accredited members cast their ballots under the supervision of high-ranking association trustees.
The contest for Zonal Publicity Officer proved to be one of the most watched races of the day, with Adewale Dada securing 41 votes to edge out Riike Wellington, who polled 29.
The New Zonal Executive Council (Exco): Zonal Vice President, Prince Olaleye Abiodun Ajibade; Zonal Secretary, Olatundun Olumide; Zonal Publicity Officer, Adewale Dada; Financial Secretary, Dr. Femi Adegbola; Treasurer, Madam Opeyemi Alabi; Internal Auditor, Temitope Ogunsebikan; and Ex-Officio Member, Otunba Tunde Adesokan.
The process was coordinated by Dr. Tokunbo Dagunduro, Deputy Vice President II, alongside Board of Trustees (BoT) members Madam Kofoworola Akanni Aluko and Elder Prince Olajide Sarayi, ensuring the exercise met the association’s standards for transparency.
Prince Ajibade: Vision for Professional Excellence
In an emotive acceptance speech, Prince Ajibade signaled his intent to move beyond the status quo. Recognizing the economic headwinds currently facing the Nigerian travel sector, he emphasized that his leadership would focus on capacity building and industry-wide engagement.
“Leadership is about growing others and consolidating on the achievements of predecessors,” Ajibade remarked. “I am humbled by the trust placed in me. I promise to be accessible, responsive, and dedicated to your needs.”
Ajibade was quick to praise the “innovative contributions” of past leaders, citing the recent increase in professional workshops and seminars as a foundation he intends to build upon. He specifically committed to working in lockstep with the National President and the National Executive Council to ensure the Western Zone remains a “beacon of excellence” for travel agencies.
What This Means for Stakeholders
For travel practitioners in the Western region, this election represents more than just a change in personnel; it is a strategic pivot toward unity. With the immediate past Vice President, Otunba Tunde Adesokan, remaining as an Ex-Officio member, the zone retains a valuable “institutional memory” while injecting fresh energy into its executive ranks.
The new Exco takes office at a critical juncture where the Nigerian travel industry is grappling with fluctuating currency rates and evolving aviation policies. The “Ajibade Mandate” suggests a more vocal and professionalized front for the Western Zone as it navigates these challenges.
Would you like me to draft a follow-up interview guide for these new executives to help you dig deeper into their specific policy goals for the region?
