Shyllon Museum is set to host NATOP to boost cultural tourism and position Ibeju-Lekki as emerging tourism hub.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA), Pan-Atlantic University, has hosted the leadership and members of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) on a familiarization visit aimed at strengthening cultural tourism and positioning Ibeju-Lekki as one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing tourism destinations.
The landmark visit marked the first official engagement between the museum and the national body of tour operators since YSMA’s establishment, bringing together tourism professionals from different parts of the country, including the North, South-South, and South-West regions.
Led by NATOP President, Bolaji Mustapha, the delegation toured the museum’s galleries and engaged in strategic discussions focused on tourism development, heritage preservation, and destination marketing.
During the visit, the museum unveiled its broader vision for cultural tourism within the rapidly developing Ibeju-Lekki corridor, positioning YSMA as a cultural anchor within an expanding tourism ecosystem that includes the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Lakowe Lakes, Omu Resort, Eleko Beach, La Campagne Tropicana, and Jara Beach Resort.
Museum Director, Jess Castellote, said the collaboration between cultural institutions and tourism professionals is crucial to expanding Nigeria’s visibility globally.
“We are intentional about building a sustainable ecosystem where art, heritage, and tourism intersect to tell a stronger story of Nigeria,” he said.
“YSMA is not simply a repository of art; it is a cultural destination capable of attracting global audiences and contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s creative and tourism economy.”
A key highlight of the visit was a courtesy meeting with the Vice Chancellor of Pan-Atlantic University, Enase Okonedo, who reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to promoting culture, education, and national development.
“Tourism and culture are powerful instruments for shaping national identity and strengthening international engagement,” Okonedo stated.
She added that the museum serves as a dynamic platform for education, dialogue, and cultural exchange while commending NATOP’s role in advancing tourism in Nigeria.
Responding, NATOP President Bolaji Mustapha described the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art as one of Nigeria’s most important cultural destinations and pledged stronger collaboration between tour operators and the museum.
“The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art represents the kind of world-class experience that today’s travellers are looking for,” she said.
She noted that beyond its collections, the museum offers authentic cultural experiences that deepen visitors’ understanding of Nigeria through its programmes and activities.
The visit is expected to create new opportunities for collaboration between YSMA and tour operators nationwide, including curated cultural tour packages, increased visitor traffic, and stronger integration of arts and heritage into Nigeria’s tourism ecosystem.
Recognised by Apollo Magazine as Museum Opening of the Year in 2020, YSMA remains Nigeria’s first purpose-built private university museum and continues to position itself at the intersection of culture, education, and public engagement.
