FTAN president, Saleh Rabo is dead

THE Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN) has been thrown into mourning following the death of its national president, Saleh Rabo.

FTAN Public Relations Officer (North), Joseph Karim, in a statement in Abuja, said that Rabo’s immediate family confirmed his passing yesterday.

According to Karim Rabo died yesterday, after a protracted illness and had been buried according to Islamic rites.

He said, “Rabo will be remembered for his loving personality, tolerance of detractors, genteelness in leadership, camaraderie and go-getting spirit.

“He was a consummate travel and tourism professional and investor.

“Rabo died being the Managing-Director of All States Travels with office in Transcorp Hilton Abuja,”

He noted that Rabo first became the President of FTAN in June 2017, after winning a landslide victory at the general elections of the federation, and was subsequently re-elected in 2019 for his second and final term.

“His tenure was due to elapse in July 2021 before his death.

Rabo, the Managing Director of All States Travels, was a member of the Nigerian Tourism Development Board (NTDB).

He was Vice President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) from 2012 till 2016.

A statement by Ovie Esewhaye for the NTDB said the board was saddened by Rabo’s demise.

“He was an integral member of the NTDC family. Rabo was a seasoned tourism practitioner and promoter who contributed selflessly to the growth and development of tourism in Nigeria.”

It added that the deceased was a strong advocate of private sector participation in tourism businesses.

Esewhaye said his numerous contributions to the tourism industry in Nigeria would be well remembered.

The statement further described Rabo as a gentleman who was humble and dedicated to service.

The board condoled with the family and prayed that his soul rests in peace.