YTHLF 2026: Youth Tourism Leaders Forum Returns to Ibadan for 14th Edition

YTHLF 2026: Youth Tourism Leaders Forum Returns to Ibadan, Sets Agenda for the Next Generation of Tourism Leaders

 By Chimezie Mike
 _Founder, Tourism Afrikania | National Publicity Secretary, Hospitality and Tourism Management Association of Nigeria (HATMAN)_

 The 14th edition of the Youth Tourism & Hospitality Leaders Forum (YTHLF) is set to hold in Ibadan on October 29, 2026, bringing together young people, tourism and hospitality professionals, entrepreneurs, scholars and other stakeholders for another important conversation on the future of Nigeria’s tourism industry.

 The annual forum, powered by Travelscope Magazine, has over the years established itself as a platform for youth-focused tourism education, industry engagement and leadership development. Its 2026 edition is expected to provide participants with practical knowledge, inspiration and opportunities to connect with key players across the tourism, hospitality and aviation value chains.

 According to a statement by the Convener of YTHLF and Managing Editor of Travelscope Magazine, Omololu Olumuyiwa, the forum was created to sensitise, educate and motivate young Nigerians while promoting greater understanding of the social, cultural and economic contributions of tourism and hospitality to national development.

 A Conversation Around Youth, Innovation and Digital Tourism

 One of the major highlights of this year's forum will be the keynote address by Dr. T.G. Yusuf, a distinguished tourism scholar from the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

 Dr. Yusuf will speak on the theme:

 "Youth Innovation, Digital Marketing & Tourism Development.”

 The choice of the theme is particularly relevant at a time when digital platforms, content creation, technology and innovative business models are increasingly influencing how destinations are marketed, how tourists make decisions and how tourism businesses connect with their customers.

 For Nigeria's young tourism professionals and entrepreneurs, conversations around innovation and digital marketing are becoming increasingly important as the industry seeks to create new products, attract new markets and position Nigerian destinations more competitively.

 Celebrating Those Building the Industry

 The 2026 edition will also recognise notable scholars, industry practitioners, stakeholders and young people whose contributions have supported the advancement of tourism in Nigeria.

 The awards component, alongside other activities