The visit aimed at strengthening cultural tourism and advancing the positioning of Ibeju-Lekki as one of the most promising tourism destinations in the country.

The visit marked the first official engagement between YSMA and the national body of tour operators since the museum’s establishment, bringing together tourism professionals from across Nigeria, including representatives from the North, South-South, and South-West regions.

Led by the President of NATOP, Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha, the delegation toured the museum’s galleries and participated in strategic conversations around tourism development, heritage preservation, and destination marketing.

As part of the engagement, the museum presented its broader vision for cultural tourism within the rapidly developing Ibeju-Lekki corridor, positioning YSMA as a key cultural anchor within an emerging tourism ecosystem that includes the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Lakowe Lakes, Omu Resort, Eleko Beach, La Campagne Tropicana, and Jara Beach Resort among others.

The presentation emphasized the role of culture and heritage institutions in driving visitor experiences, shaping narratives about Nigeria, and creating sustainable tourism opportunities.

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Jess Castellote, Museum director, highlighted the importance of collaboration between cultural institutions and the tourism sector in expanding Nigeria’s global visibility.

“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 Prof. Enase Okonedo, the vice chancellor of Pan-Atlantic University, who welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote culture, education, and national development.

“Tourism and culture are powerful instruments for shaping national identity and strengthening international engagement,” the Vice Chancellor remarked. “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. We commend NATOP for its leadership in advancing tourism in Nigeria and appreciate its efforts in helping showcase the richness of our cultural heritage to wider audiences.”

Responding to the museum’s vision and offerings, NATOP President, Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha described YSMA as one of the country’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 and to ensure it becomes a central feature in tourism itineraries across West Africa.”

The visit is expected to open new pathways for collaboration between YSMA and tour operators nationwide, including the development of curated cultural tour packages, increased visitor traffic to the museum, and stronger integration of arts and heritage into Nigeria’s tourism landscape.

As Nigeria’s first purpose-built private university museum, the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art continues to work with key industry stakeholders and to position itself as a leading institution at the intersection of culture, education, and public engagement, using art not only to preserve history, but also to shape the future of cultural tourism in Nigeria and beyond.

The one-day programme, held on March 6, 2025, brought together thirty-one community leaders from Itamapako, Ogun State, offering them a transformative experience in cultural awareness, visual literacy, artistic expression, and leadership.

The initiative was in line with the International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 theme, Accelerate Action, and addressed core priorities of the global IWD movement including: expanding women’s access to quality education and training; promoting the creative talent of women; and advancing women’s leadership, service and impact.

The museum partnered with the Educational Co-operation Society (ECS) and Zabalketa NGO, two organizations committed to social transformation through education and international cooperation.

Speaking on the significance of the programme, the Museum Director, Jess Castellote remarked:

“At YSMA, we believe that art is a powerful tool for social change. By empowering these women leaders through cultural inclusion, we are not only enriching their lives but also strengthening the fabric of our communities.”

Reflecting on the role of education in women’s empowerment, the Project Manager of ECS, Wilfred Dieke said:

“Our collaboration with YSMA and Zabalketa in this programme underscores our commitment to education and character formation. Women’s leadership is strengthened when they have access to knowledge and creative resources. We are proud to support initiatives that provide women with the skills and confidence to lead and inspire others.”

The Technical Coordinator for International Cooperation Projects at Zabalketa, Susana Mateo praised the programme’s impact in her remarks:

“This initiative demonstrates how right to culture and education is a strategic tool for empowering women, and advancing gender equality and social progress. It is very important for us and our sponsor, the Basque Government, because we are contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society.”

This initiative reinforces Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art’s commitment to social inclusion and sustainable development through the arts, further integrating its mission of service, education, and impact within local and global conversations.

By aligning with international efforts to accelerate progress for women, YSMA continues to set the standard for how art institutions can drive meaningful change beyond their gallery walls.