Recent flight from Nigeria to Casablanca, I experienced one of those moments. Nigeria’s Practical Pursuit of Innovation

Phillip Tinubu, MPA : Travel, for me, has always been more than movement between destinations. It is in the quiet, unplanned moments that journeys take on deeper meaning. On my recent flight from Nigeria to
Casablanca, I experienced one of those moments.
A Conversation Above the Clouds
Somewhere between departure and descent, I began speaking with the passenger seated
beside me. What started as a polite exchange about our travels gradually developed into a
thoughtful conversation about Nigeria, development, and the responsibility that comes with
telling a country’s story accurately.

It was during this discussion that I learned I was speaking with Dalton Zahir, a respected travel
expert and the CEO of Travellerkey and editor Travellertimes. By that time, however, his professional title felt secondary.

What stood out most was his genuine interest in understanding the realities of Nigeria beyond
common assumptions.
Our conversation did not end when the aircraft landed. It continued as we made our way
through the airport in Casablanca, reflecting on what development truly looks like in practice
rather than in theory.
Nigeria’s Practical Pursuit of Innovation
Having just spent time in Nigeria, I shared my observations candidly. Nigeria remains a
developing nation, and its challenges are visible. Infrastructure requires strengthening.
Economic reforms are ongoing. Progress is measured and, at times, uneven.
Yet there is also a clear and deliberate effort to move forward.

One of the most significant areas of focus is agriculture.

Rather than viewing agriculture as outdated, there is increasing recognition that it is central to long-term economic stability. Efforts to improve irrigation systems, modernize farming equipment, reduce post harvest losses, and strengthen distribution networks are becoming more structured and intentional. Food security
and local production are now prominent topics in national discussions.

These advancements may not appear dramatic from the outside, but they are foundational.
Sustainable development begins with strengthening core sectors, and agriculture remains one
of Nigeria’s most vital.

At the same time, there is a noticeable ambition to expand into broader technological fields. In
cities such as Lagos and Abuja, young professionals are acquiring skills in software
development, digital services, and engineering. The ecosystem is still growing and cannot yet
rival established global technology hubs. However, the intention to diversify beyond traditional
industries is evident.

What impressed me most was not rapid transformation, but steady determination. Innovation in
Nigeria is not presented as a trend. It is discussed as a necessity for long term resilience and
competitiveness.
The Importance of Honest Dialogue
Speaking with Dalton reinforced how important balanced conversations can be. As someone
whose work involves documenting places and cultures, he understood that perception carries
weight. Narratives influence how nations are viewed, and how they are viewed can affect
investment, collaboration, and opportunity.

Our exchange reminded me that meaningful discussions do not always take place in formal
settings. Sometimes they occur between two travelers sharing reflections during a flight. Yet
such conversations can shape understanding in subtle but lasting ways.
Nigeria’s development will ultimately depend on internal reforms, consistent policy
implementation, and sustained national effort. However, international awareness and thoughtful
engagement can complement that progress. When countries are understood with nuance rather
than simplicity, space is created for cooperation grounded in respect.
A Personal Reflection
That flight from Nigeria to Casablanca offered more than a change of location. It offered
perspective. Meeting Dalton Zahir by chance and engaging in an open, thoughtful dialogue
reminded me that development is not only about infrastructure or economic statistics. It is also
about narrative, perception, and human connection.

From left : Mohammad Zahirul Islam known as Dalton Zahir and Phillip Tinubu MPA

Nigeria’s path forward is neither effortless nor instantaneous. It is deliberate and evolving. Yet
there is a growing clarity of purpose, particularly in strengthening agriculture and gradually
expanding into broader technological sectors.
And sometimes, the most meaningful insights about a nation’s future begin not in policy papers,
but in sincere conversation shared at thirty thousand feet.

(4) travellertimes: Company Page Admin | LinkedIn

M.Z.I. Dalton Zahir | LinkedIn

M.Z.I. Dalton Zahir is a prominent professional in the global tourism and hospitality sector with over 25 years of experience. He is widely recognised for his roles in hotel management, aviation, and international tourism promotion, particularly focusing on “Beautiful Bangladesh”. 

Professional Background Memberships and Affiliations, Current Leadership Roles :

He holds several influential positions and memberships in international organizations :

• International Ecotourism Society (TIES) Philippines Inc.: He was appointed President for Portugal and Head of Europe for the 2025–2028 term.
• Tourism Developers Association of Bangladesh (TDAB): He currently serves as a Director (2023–2025).
• FBCCI: He is the Co-Chairman of the Civil Aviation and Tourism Standing Committee.
• Portugal-Bangladesh Friendship Association: Serves as a senior Advisor.
• Tourism Alliance Society (TAS): Acts as an Advisor. 
• Professional Memberships
• SKAL International Madrid: He made history as the first Bangladeshi member of this prestigious professional tourism organization.
• Photographic Society of America (PSA): Active member involved in international photo competitions.
• Tour Operator Association of Bangladesh (TOAB): Long-standing member of the national tourism body.
• Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA): Member of the New York Chapter.
• European American Chamber of Commerce & Industry: Member representing business and tourism interests. 
• Industry Experience: His extensive career includes senior positions at renowned hotels and organizations Motorola mobile, Apple computer, Fuji digital camera, deferent 5star Hotels , and ventures Travellerkey. Europekey,WelcomeBangladesh, worldvacation club, travellertimes, CosmicWink etc
• Global Exposure: He has participated in the world’s most prestigious travel fairs, including ITB Berlin (Germany), WTM London (UK), and Arabian Travel Market (UAE), Fitur Madrid Spain, IBTWorld Barcelona Spain,

Expertise and Specializations

• Tourism Development: Expert in creating tools and blueprints to attract international tourists and explore cultural potentials.
• Consultancy for Travel, Migration & Study Abroad and Business Developments
• Hospitality Management: Deep expertise in hotel operations and luxury service standards.
• Aviation: Focused on civil aviation policy and its synergy with the tourism sector.
• PR, Marketing strategy Promotion and Publications PLAN and Implementations.
• Photography: An accomplished photographer and member of the Photographic Society of America, having participated in international photo competitions in the USA, Germany, and France. Till now Published Books 06, written by Dalton Zahir .

M.Z.I. Dalton Zahir | LinkedIn