Ado Salisu
The inaugural Ladies in Hospitality and Tourism (LIHAT) Awards is set to take center stage on 14th March 2026, honoring women making remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sector.
Organized to commemorate International Women’s Day, the awards aim to recognize excellence, integrity, professionalism, and impactful leadership among women in the industry.
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The event will provide a structured platform for mentorship, networking, and intergenerational dialogue, enabling young and aspiring female professionals to learn from accomplished industry leaders.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, the Convener of the Conference, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, and CEO of Philoxenia Global Hospitality Limited, Florence Oyelade Adedayo-Tayo (aka Lady FOAT), emphasized that the awards were created to honor women who have consistently upheld high ethical standards while contributing significantly to industry growth.
Lady FOAT highlighted that this year’s event emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility, advocating equal opportunities for all, including People Living with Disabilities (PLWDs).
The awards have received institutional endorsements from the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Association for Tourism and Hospitality Consultants in Nigeria (ATHCON), and Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN), with additional support from the Office of the Mandate Secretary, Women Affairs, FCTA.
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Dignitaries expected at the event include the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy; the Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority; the President of FTAN; and Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Honourable Mandate Secretary, Women Affairs, FCTA, alongside policymakers, tourism stakeholders, hospitality entrepreneurs, general managers, and the public.
A major highlight of the evening will be the official unveiling of the Ladies in Hospitality and Tourism Conference and Awards brand, marking the formal launch of a platform designed for advocacy, recognition, and professional development for women in the industry.
The event promises to be a defining moment for Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sector, celebrating excellence, empowerment, policy engagement, and purpose-driven leadership. Members of the public, industry stakeholders, and corporate partners are invited to participate in this historic celebration.