By Peace Udugba
The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art has hosted the leadership and members of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) on a familiarisation visit aimed at strengthening cultural tourism and positioning Ibeju-Lekki as one of Nigeria’s emerging tourism destinations.
The visit, held at the museum located within Pan-Atlantic University, marked the first official engagement between the museum and the national body of tour operators since the institution was established.
The delegation, led by NATOP President, Bolaji Mustapha, included tourism professionals from different parts of the country, including the North, South-South and South-West regions. Members toured the museum’s galleries and participated in discussions on tourism development, heritage preservation and destination marketing.
During the engagement, the museum unveiled its broader vision for cultural tourism within the rapidly developing Ibeju-Lekki corridor, positioning the museum as a key cultural attraction within a growing 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, stressed the importance of collaboration between cultural institutions and the tourism sector in promoting Nigeria globally.
“We are intentional about building a sustainable ecosystem where art, heritage and tourism intersect to tell a stronger story of Nigeria,” he said.
“This visit by NATOP is significant because it connects the museum directly with the professionals shaping travel experiences across the country. 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 major 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,” she said.
“At Pan-Atlantic University, we view the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art not only as a repository of heritage but also as a dynamic platform for education, dialogue and cultural exchange.”
Speaking on behalf of NATOP, Mrs. Mustapha described the museum as one of Nigeria’s most important cultural destinations and pledged stronger collaboration between the association and the museum.
“The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art represents the kind of world-class experience that today’s travellers are looking for,” she stated.
“Beyond its remarkable collections, the museum offers an authentic cultural encounter that enriches how visitors understand Nigeria through its programmes and activities. NATOP is committed to working closely with YSMA to increase its visibility among local and international tourists.”
The visit is expected to pave the way for new collaborations between the museum and tour operators nationwide, including curated cultural tour packages, increased visitor traffic and stronger integration of arts and heritage into Nigeria’s tourism industry.
The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art, regarded as Nigeria’s first purpose-built private university museum, said it remains committed to positioning itself as a leading institution at the intersection of culture, education and public engagement.
