The Ekiti State Chapter of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria, ATPN, has hosted over 2,000 students at its 2026 Students Summit held on Tuesday, June 10, at the Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti.
The summit, themed “Reimagining Tourism and Hospitality: Sustainability, Innovation, and Growth,” brought together students of Hospitality and Tourism Management, faculty members, industry practitioners, and government representatives to discuss practical strategies for the future of tourism in Ekiti State and Nigeria.
Declaring the event open, Chairman of ATPN Ekiti State Chapter, Dr. Olusayo Oluwakemi Olowookere-Ayodele, said the summit was designed to move students beyond theoretical learning to actionable industry engagement.
“The theme speaks directly to the reality of our time. If we must create jobs, attract investment, and showcase the beauty and culture of Ekiti State to the world, then we must think differently, act sustainably, and embrace innovation,” she said.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Vice Chancellor of Ekiti State University, Professor Joseph Babatola Ayodele, and other dignitaries in the tourism sector.
Unlike conventional academic conferences, the summit featured practical sessions on packaging and rebranding cultural festivals, e-business and event management, creative arts and indigenous heritage, tour guiding, and travel agency operations. Students worked in teams to develop market-ready solutions under the guidance of industry professionals.
The keynote address was delivered by Hon. Abimbola Stephen Akin, who presented a case study on project execution in tourism and challenged participants to redesign a failed initiative. Representatives of partner organisations also provided mentorship and real-time feedback.
For the first time in the chapter’s history, the summit introduced awards and sponsorship opportunities for students who excelled in the practical components. Prizes included cash awards, mentorship placements, internships, and project sponsorships.
Dr. Olowookere-Ayodele said the initiative was aimed at identifying and supporting the next generation of tourism leaders and entrepreneurs in Ekiti State.
In her closing remarks, she urged students to view tourism and hospitality as tools for economic transformation, cultural preservation, and national development. She appreciated the Ekiti State Government, EKSU management, sponsors, and partners for supporting the summit.
ATPN Ekiti State Chapter reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining platforms that connect students with industry leaders and promote professionalism and innovation in the tourism and hospitality sector.
