The Eko Tourism Foundation (ETF) has been admitted as an affiliate member of the United Nations (UN) Tourism, marking a major milestone in the Foundation’s efforts to position Lagos State and Nigeria as leading global tourism destinations.

A statement by Head of Strategic Communications, Lai Mohammed Media Office, Abuja, Nnamdi Atupulazi, said that the approval of the Foundation’s membership was granted at the 126th session of the Executive Council of UN Tourism held in Toledo, Spain, yesterday, June 11, 2026, following the submission of ETF’s application on November 17, 2025.

The certificate of membership was presented to the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Eko Tourism Foundation, Lai Mohammed, by the Secretary-General of UN Tourism, Shaikha Al Nuwais, during the executive council meeting.

The certificate states that the membership was awarded in appreciation of the Foundation’s commitment to the values, aims, principles and policies of UN Tourism.

Mohammed, a former Minister of Information and Culture, who is also the Chairman of ETF’s Governing Council, described the admission into UN Tourism as a significant international endorsement of the Foundation’s vision and mission.

“This affiliation is a strong vote of confidence in the Eko Tourism Foundation and its commitment to advancing tourism development in Lagos, Nigeria and Africa. It gives us a credible global platform to engage with tourism stakeholders across the world, exchange ideas, build partnerships and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of sustainable tourism,” he said.

However, as an affiliate member, the Eko Tourism Foundation joins a global network of more than 500 tourism stakeholders, including tourism boards, private-sector organisations, educational institutions, destinations and industry associations from around the world.

The membership provides ETF with access to international best practices, policy discussions, research, capacity-building opportunities and collaborative initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism development.