The Association of Nigerian Journalists and Writers of Tourism (ANJET) says it will honour Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, OON, for his contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s tourism sector.
Runsewe, former Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), will be recognised at ANJET’s award event scheduled for Oct. 23 at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.
The event is themed “Celebrating Institutional Memory and Legacy.”
ANJET President, Mr. Okorie Uguru made the announcement during Creative Nigeria, a cultural tourism programme aired on Mainland 98.3 FM, Lagos.
He said Runsewe would receive “The Pillar of Culture and Tourism in Nigeria” award in recognition of his leadership at the NCAC from 2018 to 2024 and for promoting Nigerian culture both locally and internationally.
“Otunba Runsewe is one of the few public servants who left behind a legacy of innovation and impact in the creative and tourism sectors,” Uguru said.
He added that Runsewe’s tenure was marked by landmark initiatives that boosted Nigeria’s cultural visibility.
“From arts festivals to cultural diplomacy, he ensured that Nigerian heritage was not only preserved but also projected globally,” he said.
Uguru said the award recognises individuals who have shaped Nigeria’s tourism narrative through vision, consistency, and institutional development.
He also noted that the choice of venue — Sheraton Hotel, Lagos — was symbolic, as the international hospitality brand is marking its 40th year in Nigeria.
“Sheraton is one of the pioneers of international hospitality in the country. It opened in 1985 and remains a strong contributor to Nigeria’s tourism economy,” he said.
Other honourees include Ambassador Frank Ogbuewu, former Minister of Culture and Tourism under President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2004.
Uguru called for increased government investment in tourism and praised private sector stakeholders for supporting the industry.
He reaffirmed ANJET’s commitment to promoting tourism reportage and advocacy across media platforms. (NAN)