Boss Picks
Why I Should Be Re-Elected NANTA President – Bankole Bernard
Published
8 years agoon
By
Eric
By Eric Elezuo
Among the bodies helping the growth of the Nigeria aviation section is the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) under the leadership of the lively, capable and seasoned aviation practitioner, BANKOLE BERNARD. In this interview, the soft spoken great achiever highlighted how far he has taken the special association, and why he should be given another two-year term of office as the association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) comes up in Port Harcourt later in the month. Excerpts:
Can we meet you sir?
My name is Bankole Bernard, and I am the National President of National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA).
You are majorly an economic and financial person, how did you delve into tourism and airline business?
Well, in life, one thing you can’t do is change destiny. I feel I have been destined to go through this path at a particular point in time. I was in the financial world for a while. I left to seek my first passion which has to do with travelling and haven’t looked back ever since. Travelling is something that is very dear to my heart, because it comes with a lot of opportunities. There is a lot the government can get from travelling but unfortunately they’ve not given it the desired attention in terms of policies that would help it blossom. That explains one of the reasons I became the president of the association; so I can draw government’s attention to what is going on in the aviation industry.
You called it a passion; at what stage in your life did this develop?
The passion has always been there. I’ve always wanted to move around, even at a very young age. Then, I didn’t understand what it was all about, but with time, it became clearer as I got more involved. I had the opportunity to travel to several countries like Togo, Ghana amongst others. Whilst growing up, I embarked on domestic trips with the family – just to know Nigeria. As you can see, the passion for travelling has always been there. Later, I made it a point of duty to visit all continents. Presently, I’m trying to draw people’s attention to the fact that domestic tourism is the key thing and we need to focus on it and know the happenings around us to erase the impression that Nigeria is unsafe to visit. I just got back from Kano and I was surprised but pleased to see a safe state with happy people which runs contrary to the stories we hear about the Northern states.
How long have you been the president of NANTA?
I’ve been the President of NANTA for 2 years.
In the next couple of days, there would be an election, are you running again?
Yes.
Now, why do you think you should be re-elected having been the President for 2 years? What are those things that stood you out in the last 2 years?
Well, in the last 2 years, the face of NANTA has changed. NANTA has been rebranded and new products developed. The association has created more presence than ever before in the travel and tourism space. As it stands today, NANTA is one of the trade associations around to reckon with. Based on the good works we’ve done in the last 2 years, we’ve had trade associations like SATA in South Africa, KTA in Kenya, willing to partner with us. More so, we have developed a better relationship with International Airline Travel Association (IATA), the international umbrella body of travel agencies.
Also, during my tenure, we have had the privilege of visiting IATA home office on two different occasions, and we are collaborating with them on a lot of things. One of them is NANTA collecting annual dues for IATA on behalf of their members in Nigeria; this is one of the noble things we’ve been able to achieve.

We have come up with NANTA identity card to regulate people in the industry. With that, you can identify a genuine travel agency and those that are not; it will be launched next month. In addition, we have created state chapters for NANTA. The association generally has just five zones, and in each of those zones, we have state chapters that are coming up. The membership of NANTA is fast growing because there is a much more improved visibility and connectivity, in addition to creating a user friendly online registration portal for NANTA members. This has made registration for new members stress-free and easily available as they can register and submit all their documents online.
Saying quite a lot has been achieved will be an understatement. We have intervened where necessary with the Ministry of Aviation, as well as the Ministry of Tourism. They know the importance of NANTA and they liaise with us when required, every step of the way.
What are the things limiting the growth of the tourism industry?
The limitation is basically knowledge and policy based. Most of those policies need to be changed and some need to be upgraded for one reason or another. Aviation is a striving business everywhere in the world, and countries use it to showcase their countries’ worth. However in this part of the world, we’ve not done so well, but I know the present Minister of State for Aviation, Alhaji Sirika, is doing a lot to revive it with the assistance of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the highest ruling body in the aviation industry. We just need to harness the things that we have; all our facilities need to be ungraded and organized. The government needs to focus on formulating enabling policies as well as allow private entities to drive the business aspect of aviation. If we do these, we would get the dividend. Things have changed around the world and Nigeria cannot be left in isolation. We need to change the way we do things as well.
Sir, what is your take on not having a national carrier in Nigeria?
The truth is, there is a misconception about national carriers. What is a national carrier? It is a name you give to an airline that is owned by the country. In these days, several countries are changing from their national carrier to having flag carrier as long as they have the representative that can take it up and service it well. I believe the government can partner with lots of domestic carriers and make the best out of them, either by investing or by giving them a real environment that enables them fly to other countries uninhibited. Floating national carriers is not the best option right now, because we really don’t have the resources and even if we do, there are other things that deserve it.

Talking about resources, does it make smaller African countries thriving in aviation are better than Nigeria?
They are thriving because they have accountability, and they make the best of what they have. Here, we have been distracted by our oil. If Ethiopia had oil today maybe they won’t concentrate on their aviation. I think we need to divert our attention from oil and let it be an alternative. We have the population, therefore, I see aviation as the next main stay of the economy – if the government can pay attention to it.
As the president of a body that supervises aviation, have you made a formal proposal to the government as regards these?
The good thing is that we have a very good relationship with government as a pressure group, and we’ve always made it known that they need to have a change in policies or renewal of policies. We make suggestions to them from time to time, just to make sure that they are given proper guidance concerning the policies.
And all these while, have they been listening to you?
Yes, we have had situations where we have agreed on issues, and other times we have conflicting opinions. Nonetheless, we are making good progress.
Are there situations where they implemented your policy?
Yes! Like when they were having ‘light’ issues at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport and they were giving excuses. We came in advising them that if generator is available, it will handle the situation. Immediately, something was done about it, and since then, they’ve not had issues with light. A lot can still be done.
Are there challenges that have ever made you regret going into this business?
Well, it depends on how you see challenges. I have always seen challenges as a stepping stone to a greater height. When there are no problems, solutions can never come. All you need is to walk around it, look at it from a positive angle and you will see opportunities. Therefore, challenges to me are opportunities.
Tell us a little about your background?
I finished from the University of Lagos, and I’m a Bachelor’s degree holder in Economics. Thereafter, I went into banking and I took different courses just to improve myself before I found myself in this (tourism and aviation) industry.
What honors have you picked up in the course of doing this job?
I’ve picked up quite number of awards from different bodies. When you have substance, people are always willing to call you out.
Has there been a situation where you apprehended fake NANTA members?
NANTA was established under a regulation under Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and because it is an Act under the government, we depend on the government to get some things done. But what we have done on our own is to push for a bill in the house, which has passed through the first reading. When we have an Act, we would be able to enforce.
What are you promising members of NANTA, come convention in Port-Harcourt?
We’ve been encouraging members and the general public to come to Port-Harcourt. There is a wrong impression about Port-Harcourt which is about oil and insecurity. We want to showcase Port-Harcourt as a destination that is not just about oil, but as a tourist attraction and also to pull people to the eastern part and let them know that there is peace and stability in that area. Therefore, we want to showcase domestic tourism and luckily for us, we have the chairman of NDDC coming as a keynote speaker. We have the Minister of Aviation coming as well. The Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who is in charge of tourism, is also coming. And we are waiting for confirmation from Governor of Rivers State, and we hope government would be able to take certain decisions.
On a personal note, how do you relax?
Any little time I have, I try to spend it all with my family. I listen to music to ease the nerves too. I am an ardent tennis player. The work is extremely challenging. And if you are going to make an impact, you have to do more than enough. To be fair to myself, I think a lot of my time has gone into the job. All the zones can feel the presence of NANTA; from the Northern zone to the Eastern zone, to the Western zone, Lagos and Abuja, they all know that we reckon with them.

What food makes you happy?
Just beans!
How many kids did you have?
3
When you travel, do you take your family along?
No, they have to be in school. But most of the times, I just keep in touch with them to ensure that there is no gap. And they’ve come to realize that their father is the President of NANTA, and one who has a lot of commitment. They understand it. However, I ensure we take family holidays every summer.
Apart from NANTA, what other body executive did you belong to?
I am the Treasurer of SACO. I’m a member of IOD; I am a member of their hospitality and tourism committee. And by the time I play all these roles, I wonder what time is left.
What advice would you give to people who would want to make a living in the world of tourism?
Chase your passion! Don’t chase money, chase your passion. This is my passion, and that is what has brought me to where I am. The passion would eventually bring food to your table. Passion is not what you study in school. Passion is who you are, and it is what drives you. Passion is something you are always happy to do.
Thank you…
Related
You may like
Boss Picks
Glo Celebrates Executive Director, Sade Michael-Adenuga at 31
Published
3 weeks agoon
July 1, 2026By
Eric
By Eric Elezuo
Communications giant, GLOBACOM, has celebrated its Group Executive Director, Madam Sade Michael-Adenuga, as she clocks 31.

In a message via the Group’s X account, Globacom celebrated the go-getting abilities Ms Michael-Adenuga, recognising her dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment, which have continued speak loud in the growth and development of the Gbobacom Group.
The message reads:
“Today, we celebrate Madam Sade Michael-Adenuga, whose dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment continue to make a meaningful difference.
“As you mark another year, we wish you good health, happiness, and many more years of fulfilment and remarkable accomplishments. May the year ahead bring every opportunity to continue making an enduring impact.
“Happy Birthday, Madam Sade Michael-Adenuga.”
Sade Michael-Adenuga is the last daughter of the billionaire businessman, philanthropist and founder of the Glo brand, among many other business concerns.
Beautiful and highly ceregral, Sade is a certified Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. She currently serves as a Group Executive Director of Globacom Group, and is the founder of QuickLaw.
Related
Boss Picks
Adeleke and Momodu: A Classic Tale of ‘Twin’ Brothers
Published
2 months agoon
May 18, 2026By
Eric
By Eric Elezuo
The story of the Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Chief Dele Momodu, and the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, is one told from a multiple dimension. It encompasses passion, love, friendship, camaraderie, collaboration, and more importantly, brotherhood.
Here’s a classic tale of two individuals, who started as acquaintances, transmuted into being friends, and today has become inseparable, not just as brothers, but as ‘twin’ brothers. No wonder the Bible says, there’s a friend that sticks closer than a brother; that’s the story of ‘Demola and Dele. A typical example of Double D. A classic tale of friendship made in heaven.
Both have seen measured successes in their various fields of endeavours. Adeleke, besides being an accomplished entrepreneur, has in his own way, conquered the field of politics, having served as a distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and presently serving as the Executive Governor of Osun State.

Momodu, on his part, has not in any way lacked behind. Beyond establishing and sustaining Africa’s number one celebrity magazine, Momodu is an iconic journalist, publisher, businessman and a motivational speaker, who has both working and personal relationships with many influential world leaders. He has been one shot away from the highest office in the land, having contested for the Nigerian presidency, first as a candidate in 2011, and as an aspirant in 2023.
Born same year, 1960, same month, May, the brothers have from time in memorial, shared a common bond that has given onlookers the apertite to ask more questions about their originality. But while one is from Edo State, the other is from Osun. However, the state barriers notwithstanding, Adeleke and Momodu has proved to the world what true friendship means.
Over the weekend when Momodu celebrated his 66th birthday, just three days after Adeleke celebrated his at the Government House, in Oshogbo, the Governor gladly referred to Momodu as his ‘twin’ brother, a motion that everyone readily agreed with. It is worthy of note that while Adeleke was born on May 13, 1960, Momodu was born on May 16, 1960. Friends and associates always insist that Adeleke is three days older than Momodu, and that one fact Momodu has come to live with, and joyously celebrates.

In his message at the birthday celebration, held with incisive discussion on the theme, Ignorance and The Danger of Xenophobia, at the Dele Momodu Leadership Centre, Alalubosa, Ibadan, the Governor extolled the qualities of Momodu, fondly referring to him as ‘my twin brother’. He hailed Momodu for always using his birthday to speak to the conscience of Africa, especially in the last three years.
At the event, organized by The Dele Momodu Foundation, with the theme, “Ignorance and the Danger of Xenophobia.” Speakers at the occasion condemned the rising tide of xenophobic attacks, particularly those targeting Nigerian citizens in South Africa, warning that such hostility undermines regional progress, peace, and continental unity.

DELE MOMODU – MAY 16, 1960
Dele Momodu, without an iota of doubt stands tall among those who have been diligent in businesses, and it is therefore, no surprise that he has stood, and is still standing not just before kings but with kings.
Born Ayòbámidélé Àbáyòmí Ojútelégàn Àjàní Momodu on May 16, 1960, some 63 years ago, Chief Dele Momodu as he is known in the business circle, and Bob Dee, in the social stage, is by every standard a man who is diligent in his business. And it is no wonder that he has not only stood before kings, he had and continues to dine with kings. There is practically no influential person that Dele Momodu does not know across the length and breadth of Nigeria, Africa and on the inter-continental stage. He is that large!
By every standard a rare breed, Momodu is many things in one; journalist/publisher, businessman, philanthropist, actor, politician and motivational speaker. Among all these he considers himself simply as a reporter, and even with a retinue of seasoned staff still ventures into the field to scoop exclusives. Those who have referred to him as a workaholic are not far from the truth. Even he, himself has an oft quoted line thus “those who come from poor background cannot afford to sleep too much”.
A beacon of the Momodu family, Dele, the last of three siblings, was ‘privileged’ to lose his father at the age of 13, and was therefore sentenced to the complete tutelage of his mother, and sometimes relatives. His mother became practically his mentor, teacher and soulmate until she passed away on May 18, 2007, two days after Dele’s 47th birthday. According to him, one of the many morals his mother, who he revered next to God, taught him, is never to despair even when times are tough. Even in her near poverty state, Dele maintained that ‘she didn’t give up on me.’
The accomplished journalist, whose first name was derived from Ayobamidele, meaning “my joy has followed me home”, is a proud 1982 graduate of the University of Ife, (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife) where he obtained a degree in Yoruba Language, and followed it up in 1988 with a master’s degree in English Literature.
He kicked off his professional career as a lecturer at the Oyo State College of Arts and Science in Ile-Ife, between 1982 and 1983 while serving as a corps member. He went on to become the private secretary to the former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Chief Akin Omoboriowo, a position he held from 1983 till 1985. In 1986, he was elevated to serve the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade Olubuse II, managing his Motel Royal Limited.
Momodu is the proprietor of the no 1 celebrity journal, Ovation International Magazine, The Boss Newspaper and Ovation Television.
The Akinrogun of Gbonganland, who is also the Aare of Iwoland, has also been honoured with the Prestigious Value Leadership award by an organisation, Nigeria, which is a subsidiary of Moonlite Integrated Concept, among an avalanche of awards, honours and tags. Momodu us consistently praised for his admirable efforts, which have not gone unnoticed.
ADEMOLA JACKSON ADELEKE – MAY 13, 1960
Born of the Adeleke family of Ede in Osun State on May 13, 1960, Adeleke commenced his primary education at Methodist Primary School, Surulere Lagos State before he was privileged to relocate to Old Oyo State to continue his education at Nawarudeen Primary School, Ikire.
Adeleke was born Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke to a Muslim father and Nnena Esther Adeleke, an Igbo Christian mother. Like him, Adeleke’s father, Raji Ayoola Adeleke was a Senator and the Balogun of Ede land in Osun State. His father, Raji Ayoola Adeleke was also the leader of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN).
On completion of his primary education, he moved on to The Seventh Day Adventist Secondary School, Ede to begin his post primary schooling. In the later years however, he attended Ede Muslim Grammar School Ede, where he completed his secondary school education and subsequently relocated to the United States of America, joining his two older brothers, who were also studying there.
In the United States, he joined Jacksonville State University, Alabama, and studied Criminal Justice, with minor in Political Science.
To prove doubting Thomases, who wiped up controversies around his educational qualification, wrong, he went back to school and got enrolled at Atlanta Metropolitan State College in the United States, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in 2021.
A businessman and administrator of no mean repute, Adeleke was the humble Group Executive Director at his brother’s company, Pacific Holdings Limited from 2001 to 2016, where his credible performances shot the company to enviable heights; a height it is still enjoying till date.
It is imperative to note that before he joined Pacific Holdings Limited, Senator Adeleke worked with Quicksilver Courier Company in Atlanta, Georgia, US, as a service contractor from 1985 to 1989. His dexterity to work earned him a progression in career, and he berthed as Vice President at Origin International LLC, Atlanta, Georgia, US, a flavours and fragrance manufacturing company. His meritorious stewardship lasted a period of five years, from 1990 to 1994.
Not a few has described Adeleke as the philanthropic capital of Ede, as his influence in aiding the less privileged and downtrodden remains top notch. He is a voracious believer in community development, and has not spared any expense to see that his community receives global influence.
Politically, Adeleke is a beacon of light and hard nut to crack, having remained an albatross to opposing powers and a reference point to ideal administration.
Shortly after he lost his brother, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, who died in April 2017, he contested the Osun West 2017 Senatorial by-election, emerging as the winner under the Peoples Democratic Party, where he decamped to from the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Having emerged senator, Adeleke’s political influence waxed stronger, an on July 23, 2018, he emerged as the governorship candidate of PDP in Osun State.
Adeleke ran for Osun state governorship election under the PDP against top contenders Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola of APC and Iyiola Omisore of SDP on 22 September 2018. The election was declared inconclusive by the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) while Adeleke was leading, and a rerun slated on September 27, 2018. The candidate of the APC Oyetola was declared winner after the run-off. Adeleke protested the result describing the election as a “coup”.
Much as on March 22, 2019, the tribunal sitting in Abuja declared Adeleke the winner of the election, the Supreme Court later affirmed Gboyega Oyetola as the authentic winner of the 2018 Osun State governorship election on Friday, July 5, 2019
Popularly known as the Dancing Senator because of his penchant to joyfully react to the sounds of music, Adeleke is uncle to one of Nigeria’s popular musicians, Davido.
Governor Adeleke is married to two beautiful women. They are blessed with three children who are all entertainers. They are B-Red and Shina Rambo and a daughter, Nike Adeleke. He is the uncle of one Nigeria’s primus inter pares in entertainment, Davido.
As expected, Adeleke is moving Osun State to the greatest of heights as he promised, and many who know him agree that there are still very many more in the offing even as he navigates his political prowess to win again on August 15.
These ‘twin’ brothers have become a toast of reference. They are hardworking, philanthropic in nature, and always happy.
Yes, always happy as the smiles and dance in their gaits at all times are unmistakable.
Cheers to brotherhood!
Cheers to Ademola Adeleke and Dele Momodu!
Related
Boss Picks
Koumagnon Family Pledges Unalloyed Support for Romuald Wadagni As President
Published
3 months agoon
April 9, 2026By
Eric
By Eric Elezuo
The Koumagnon Family and Allied Families of Seme-Kpodji, of the Republic of Benin, led by Monsieur Alberto Koumagnon, has declared their unflinching support for the candidacy of Romuald Wadagni as he steps out on Sunday to vie for the presidential seat of the Republic of Benin.
In statement of declaration, the families observed that Wadagni is propelled by a ‘vision embodied in this ambitious, realistic project, resolutely focused on the future of our country’.
The declaration is presented in full:
DECLARATION OF SUPPORT BY THE GREAT KOUMAGNON FAMILY AND ALLIED FAMILIES OF SÈMÈ-KPODJI FOR CANDIDATE ROMUALD WADAGNI

The great KOUMAGNON family and allied3 families of Sèmè-Kpodji, deeply committed to the values of peace, progress, and development, followed with particular interest the presentation, on Saturday, March 21, 2026, of the “Further Together” (Plus loin ensemble) social project by our dear candidate, President Romuald WADAGNI.
Following this important political event, and gathering on this day, 04/04/2026, we wish to express our full support for the vision embodied in this ambitious, realistic project, resolutely focused on the future of our country.
From the outset, we, descendants of the KOUMAGNON family and allied families, commend the enlightened leadership of President Patrice TALON who, faithful to his commitment to building a modern and prosperous Benin, has been able to propose to the presidential majority a competent, credible candidate who brings hope for consolidating achievements.
In this dynamic of continuity and progress, the candidacy of President Romuald WADAGNI is fully in line with the continuation of the structural reforms undertaken over several years in all sectors, particularly in infrastructure.
In this regard, we recognize and commend the many achievements of the government, especially road infrastructure, which has significantly improved mobility and living conditions for the populations of the communes of Sèmè-Kpodji and surrounding areas.
Moreover, these remarkable efforts reflect a constant determination to connect localities, stimulate economic exchanges, and sustainably strengthen the attractiveness of our territories.
Building on these achievements and firmly oriented toward the future, we are convinced of the relevance of the “Further Together” project.
Therefore, the great KOUMAGNON family and allied families of Sèmè-Kpodji give their firm, committed, and unconditional support to candidate Romuald WADAGNI, as well as to his running mate, Mrs. Mariam Chabi Talata Zimé Yérima.
In the same spirit, we call on all daughters and sons of Sèmè-Kpodji, as well as all citizens committed to peace and development in our country, Benin, to mobilize massively in support of this hopeful momentum by turning out in large numbers on April 12.
We also wish to assure our dear candidate of our commitment to mobilize widely to ensure a high voter turnout in the commune of Sèmè-Kpodji.
Together, let us continue the efforts undertaken.
Together, let us consolidate our achievements.
Together, let us go further.
Long live Benin on its path toward progress!
Long live the WADAGNI–TALATA ticket!
Thank you.
Done at Sèmè-Kpodji, on 04/04/2026
The great KOUMAGNON family and allied families
Related


Where’s the Nigeria’s Oil Metering Fund?
ADC Tells Tinubu to Resign As World Bank Reveals 139million Nigerians Live in Poverty
Dominican University Hails Peter Obi on 65th Birthday
Ooni of Ife Loses Elder Brother Prince Adetunji
Spain Beat Argentina, Crowned 2026 FIFA World Cup Champions
Harakati Za Holds Pan-African Conference on Economic Restructuring, Political Reforms, Regional Integration in Accra
‘Punishment Before Trial’: The Travails of Nasir El-Rufai
Argentina Stun England with Two Late Goals to Reach 2026 World Cup Final
Nigeria Doing Well Under My Watch – Tinubu
Tech and Humanity: Nigeria is Building the AI Ambition…
Investors at UBA Business Series Identify Africa’s Next Billion-Dollar Opportunities
Friday Sermon: The Sociology of Aging: Olusegun Osoba at 87
Why GLO is the Gold Standard
Third Place Playoff: England Beat France in 10-Goal Thriller
Trending
-
Sports6 days agoArgentina Stun England with Two Late Goals to Reach 2026 World Cup Final
-
National5 days agoNigeria Doing Well Under My Watch – Tinubu
-
Tech and Humanity2 days agoTech and Humanity: Nigeria is Building the AI Ambition…
-
Business4 days agoInvestors at UBA Business Series Identify Africa’s Next Billion-Dollar Opportunities
-
Islam4 days agoFriday Sermon: The Sociology of Aging: Olusegun Osoba at 87
-
Opinion3 days agoWhy GLO is the Gold Standard
-
Sports2 days agoThird Place Playoff: England Beat France in 10-Goal Thriller
-
Featured2 days agoHarakati Za Holds Pan-African Conference on Economic Restructuring, Political Reforms, Regional Integration in Accra

