Travel Tech ‘09 gathers momentum

INSPIRED by the need to inform stakeholders on the imperative of deploying Information and Communications Technology (ICT)-based tools for developing the travel, tourism and hospitality sectors, the Tradeblazers Ltd is organizing a 2-day Travel Technology Show Nigeria (TTSN) in Lagos, which has continued to gather momentum, reports CHARLES OKOH.

Speaking to the media in Lagos, Project Manager, Tradeblazers, Mr. Seyi Jawando, said TTSN would offer delegates a unique opportunity to exchange notes on the impact of technology on the future of the Nigerian travel Industry.

He said the event is two-pronged efforts composed of a conference and an exhibition which will be chaired by key industry practitioners both within and outside the country.

On what the show seeks to achieve, Mr. Jawando, said it will highlight the innovations and the inherent benefits to end users; spotlight the impacts of these innovations to the sectors; provide a veritable platform for solution providers to meet face to face with products end user, an opportunity for business networking as well as serve as catalyst for problem solving the sectors.

“It is envisaged that a common consensus would be forged by developing a converging insight into how to further reposition the industry by presenting products and services to decision makers and end users. TTSN also seeks to develop a synergy between end users and innovation providers on service and product delivery via utilization of cutting edge technology tools,” he said.

He lamented the high level of ignorance on where travel meets technology, saying the show will serve as an eye opener for participants.

Mr. Jawando also said a show like this may not be widely received as expected in the country for now, because the nation still operates a buyers’ market as opposed to sellers’ market.

“In the sellers’ market the operators will not take us for a ride as they will be seeking all avenues to satisfy the customers by providing value for money,” he said

The show which theme is on “Technology meets travel” will be graced by the Managing Director of HRG Nigeria, Mr. Femi Adefowope, Operations Manager, Amadeus Nigeria, Mr. Linka Glover as well as the Managing director, Footprints Africa Business Solutions (FABS), Mr. Karen Bornheim, as keynote speakers.

Billed for the Expo Hall, Eko Hotel and Suites, the show is fixed for the last week of November and will run on both days.

ITREALMS Online ... delivering news for ICT4D