Pomp, pageantry as 2019 Akwaaba opens in Lagos

 

 

…Amachree charges Africans on unity

 

 

 

Posted by Sade Williams

 

 

 

The 15th edition of Akwaaba African Travel Market, opens in Lagos on Sunday, amid pomp and pageantry at the popular Eko Hotel and Suites on Victoria Island.

 

 

With colourful display by Carnival Calabar dancers, Lagos State dance troupe and Eyo dancers and the Jollof Rice war, among others, exhibitors and visitors were thrilled to fun at the only travel market in Nigeria.

 

The Expo, which witnessed more exhibitors from Africa, Asia and the Caribbean, was declared opened at about 3.pm by the man popularly known as the father of Tourism in Nigeria, Chief Mike Amachree.

 

While charging Africans on Unity, he called all to support an initiative such as Akwaaba to foster good relationship among Africans and other nationals.

 

 

Mr. Ikechi Uko, organiser of the event spoke on how it took him 15 years to convince the Caribbeans to attend the programme.

 

“You know this Expo started 15 years ago and we have been trying bring the Caribbeans back to their route but we are happy they are here to participate in this edition “, he said.

 

 

He also expressed appreciation to Lagos State for its support for tourism initiatives in the state, both from private and government stance.

 

 

Other tourism personalities who witnessed the opening ceremonies are Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, among others.

 

A large number of exhibitors came from Dubai under the auspices of Dubai Tourism, the Gambia tourism, Ethiopian airlines, Lagos State tourism board, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Accident Investigation Bureau, We sabi travel, Ghana tourism, Carnival Calabar troupe, among others were on ground to exhibit their products and services.

 

The exhibition continues till Tuesday.

More pictures:

 

 

 

Lagos state dance troupe