SKAL International is a distinguished professional organization uniting tourism leaders and enthusiasts from around the globe, SKAL International is dedicated to promoting travel and fostering friendship among its members.
Founded in 1934, SKAL International is the only global organization that brings together all branches of the travel and tourism industries.
The name “SKAL” was selected by the organization’s founder as a symbol of camaraderie. Each letter represents a value: S stands for Sundhet (Health), K for Karley (Friendship), A for Alder (Life), and L for Lycka (Happiness). Together, these values embody the essence of a healthy, friendly, and fulfilling life.
This year’s anniversary celebration theme was “Cultural Heritage: A Catalyst for Growing Tourism.” Held on December 7, 2024, the event took place at the Banquet Hall of Hotel Presidential in Port Harcourt, bringing together industry leaders to discuss the vital role of cultural heritage in tourism development.
“Dr. Raymond Ukaegbu, Ph.D., the president of SKAL Port Harcourt, while giving his welcome address, explained how tourism is the lifeblood of culture and how culture is revitalized by tourism. He reiterated that the treasures of Port Harcourt, which is the treasure base of the nation, are ripe for exploration, celebration, and dissemination to the global community.
SKAL Port Harcourt has been at the forefront of promoting tourism and nurturing partnerships that emphasize the beauty of diversity and the potential of the region for the past five years.
They have consistently been dedicated to establishing and maintaining Port Harcourt as a cultural tourism center by showcasing the distinctive traditions of communities and supporting local artisans. This was very evident at the anniversary celebrations, where different cultural troupes came out in their beautiful traditional costumes and attire to showcase the diversity in cultures, customs, dance, and styles.
“SKAL International Port Harcourt stands as a global entity dedicated to fostering networking and professional growth within the tourism and hospitality sector. Their primary goal is to unite professionals from diverse sectors and fields while encouraging meaningful collaborations and connections through seminars and collaborative efforts.
The event specially presented Cultural Dance/parades from different groups, Food tasting, Question and Answers Sessions/Panel, Dinner, Anniversary Cale Cutting and Dance.
The event featured distinguished guests and prominent personalities from the tourism and hospitality sector, representing different parts of the world.
The Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Sir Siminalayi Fubara GSSRS, KCA, was ably represented by the State’s Honorable Commissioner of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Hon. Israel Lubura Ngbuelo, Ph.D. The Director General/CEO of the Rivers State Tourism Development Agency (RSTDA), Yibo Koko, also participated. Mrs. Oluremi Soetan, the Director of SKAL Africa, joined online, and Mr. Daisi Olutu, President of SKAL International Nigeria, along with Tariboba Memberr, the Immediate Past President (IPP) of SKAL Port Harcourt, and Dr. Raymond Ukaegbu, Ph.D., the President of SKAL International, were also present.”
