The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA), Pan-Atlantic University, has hosted the leadership of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) on a familiarisation visit aimed at strengthening cultural tourism and promoting Ibeju-Lekki as a fast-growing tourism destination in Nigeria.
The visit, which brought together tour operators from across the country, was described as the first formal engagement between NATOP and the museum since its establishment.
Led by NATOP President, Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha, the delegation toured the museum’s galleries and held discussions with stakeholders on tourism development, heritage preservation and destination marketing strategies.
According to the museum, the engagement forms part of efforts to integrate cultural institutions into Nigeria’s expanding tourism value chain, particularly within the Ibeju-Lekki corridor, which hosts key attractions such as Lakowe Lakes, Omu Resort, Eleko Beach, La Campagne Tropicana, and Jara Beach Resort, alongside the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
Museum Director, Dr. Jess Castellote, said the collaboration between cultural institutions and tour operators was essential in building a sustainable tourism ecosystem that showcases Nigeria’s heritage and creativity.
He said the museum is positioning itself not only as a centre for art preservation but also as a cultural destination capable of attracting both local and international visitors.
Vice Chancellor of Pan-Atlantic University, Prof. Enase Okonedo, also received the delegation and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to promoting culture, education and national development through strategic partnerships.
She described tourism and culture as important tools for strengthening national identity and enhancing Nigeria’s global image, noting that the museum serves as a platform for education, dialogue and cultural exchange.
In her remarks, NATOP President, Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha, described the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art as a world-class cultural destination, saying it offers authentic experiences that enrich visitors’ understanding of Nigeria.
She pledged the association’s readiness to collaborate with the museum to increase its visibility and inclusion in local and international tourism itineraries.
The visit is expected to pave the way for the development of curated cultural tour packages and stronger integration of arts and heritage sites into tourism offerings across Nigeria and the West African region.
The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art, regarded as Nigeria’s first purpose-built private university museum, said it remains committed to working with industry stakeholders to advance cultural tourism and creative industry growth.