A cross-section of leaders from both the public and private sectors have called for strong support for the ‘Ipada’ initiative a visionary effort aimed at encouraging the African diaspora to return home and promoting tourism in Nigeria and across the continent.
The ‘Ipada’, a Yoruba word meaning “return”, aims to reconnect Africa with its diaspora through tourism and cultural engagement.
The initiative targets people of African descent and global Afro-enthusiasts, positioning Lagos as the central gateway to Africa’s vast tourism potential.
In 2024, President Bola Tinubu was named Global Brand Ambassador and Grand Patron of the Motherland Beckons Ipada Initiative.
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The initiative is a strategic partnership between government and private sector stakeholders to develop Africa’s tourism economy.
At the unveiling of the Ipada Five-Year Programme held at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja, founder and tourism icon, Chief Olawanle Akinboboye, described it as a cultural homecoming for the diaspora.
He said the programme dedicates 10 days annually from late November to early December for diaspora Africans to return and reconnect with their roots.
“What is important is that we harvest all tourism products in all the 55 African countries and put them on a table for the world to consume.”
“It’s time to move from slave ships to cruise ships. So, the idea is for this to happen and work effectively well, we create a five-year programme where people from the diaspora can plan to come to Africa,” he said.
The return experience will culminate at the 65-acre La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort in Lagos, a flagship destination of African hospitality.
Akinboboye, founder of the popular resort, said it will serve as a launchpad for diaspora Africans to explore heritage, culture, and other African nations.
Dr Jani Ibrahim, President of NACCIMA, said the Ipada initiative holds the potential to drive tourism and stimulate Nigeria’s economic growth.
The event drew high-profile attendees, including representatives of the Taraba and Katsina State Governors, and officials from NACCIMA.
Also present were diplomats, industry leaders, diaspora Africans, cultural icons, and professionals across various sectors who rallied support for the initiative.
