The 14th edition of the Youth Tourism and Hospitality Leaders Forum (YTHLF) will take place in Ibadan on October 29, 2026. The event brings together young people, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders from across the tourism and hospitality industry.
Organisers aim to educate and motivate delegates while advancing the social, cultural, and economic value of the sector. The forum gives youth tourism and hospitality leaders a space to connect, share ideas, and build practical skills for future growth.
This annual gathering, organised by Travelscope Magazine, serves as a focal point for regional growth and educational development in Oyo State, Nigeria.
Driving Growth Across the Tourism and Hospitality Industry
The 2026 gathering offers a full day of tourism education and professional engagement. Organisers expect a diverse group of participants to attend the sessions in Ibadan.
Keynote speaker Dr. T.G. Yusuf, a distinguished scholar from the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, will address delegates. His presentation focuses on “Youth Innovation, Digital Marketing & Tourism Development,” highlighting how young professionals can leverage technology to transform regional destinations.
Besides the main presentation, the event features an awards ceremony. The organisers will honour scholars, industry pioneers, and young innovators who have advanced Nigerian tourism. Attendees can also enter raffle draws, with prizes including free aviation college scholarships to support career training.
Shaping the Future with Travelscope Magazine
Omololu Olumuyiwa, Managing Editor of Travelscope Magazine and Convener of the forum, highlighted the event’s 14-year history of shaping industry perception.
“In its 14th year, the forum, powered yearly by Travelscope Magazine, has succeeded in creating a better narrative on tourism, aviation, and hospitality in the minds of the youths. It is now a must-attend educational platform for youths with a passion to excel in the aviation, hospitality, and tourism industry,” he said.
The initiative continues to serve as an entry point for young people seeking long-term careers in travel, aviation, and hotel management.
Endorsing the Next Generation of Youth Tourism and Hospitality Leaders
The forum holds endorsements from key Federal Government tourism agencies and professional organisations. Official supporters include:
- NIHOTOUR: National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism
- NTDA: Nigerian Tourism Development Authority
- FTAN: Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria
- IoH: Institute of Hospitality UK–Nigeria International Branch
- HATMAN: Hospitality and Tourism Association of Nigeria
- ITPN: Institute of Tourism Professionals of Nigeria
- GITH: Global Institute of Tourism and Hospitality
These partnerships confirm the forum’s role as a trusted platform for professional growth in West Africa’s travel sector. Organisers urge young professionals, students, and entrepreneurs to register early for the October session.
