NBA-SBL targets tourism investment with A’Ibom retreat

The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law is organizing a four-day Tourism Retreat and Roundtable in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from October 1-4, 2026. The event aims to explore ways of unlocking investment in Nigeria's travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors. Themed "Unlocking Investment in the Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Sector: The Role of Data and Innovative Financing," the retreat will bring together key stakeholders from various sectors including lawyers, investors, financiers, regulators, tourism operators, policymakers and more.

The NBA-SBL Chairman, Baba Alokolaro, emphasized that travel, tourism, and hospitality are among Nigeria's "new oil," stating that the country has several untapped tourism destinations capable of contributing significantly to economic growth. He highlighted the decision to hold the retreat in Uyo as an effort to broaden discussions beyond Lagos and other major commercial centers.

The Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Committee (TTHC) of the NBA-SBL chose the theme "Unlocking Investment in the Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Sector: The Role of Data and Innovative Financing" because developing Nigeria's tourism potential requires more than attractive destinations. Reliable data, financing, capital, and appropriate structures are essential to make the sector commercially viable.

The committee is committed to promoting domestic tourism and taking activities to states with significant but underutilized tourism potential.

The event will also feature discussions on data, innovative financing, deal structuring, and infrastructure. Delegates will have the opportunity to experience some of Akwa Ibom's cultural and tourism attractions, including a visit to Victor Attah International Airport and the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Uyo. The retreat will combine intellectual and business discussions with cultural and leisure experiences.