Andrew Nihopara Returns to Lead Tourism Solomons into a New Chapter

After more than two decades helping shape tourism across Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific, Andrew Nihopara is returning to Tourism Solomons at a defining moment for the national tourism office.

Tourism Solomons has announced Mr Nihopara as its new Chief Executive Officer, a decision the organisation says brings experienced leadership, regional insight and a strong international profile to the country’s tourism sector.

The appointment comes as Solomon Islands works to sharpen its presence in international visitor markets and position the destination more confidently across the Asia-Pacific region. With the CEO role vacant for more than five years, Mr Nihopara’s arrival marks a significant leadership milestone for Tourism Solomons.

For Mr Nihopara, the role is also a return to familiar ground. He previously served as Head of Marketing for Tourism Solomons from 2001 to 2004, before going on to hold senior regional tourism positions, including Marketing Manager and Deputy CEO of the Pacific Tourism Organisation, based in Suva, Fiji, from 2006 to 2011.

During his time with the Pacific Tourism Organisation, he was recognised by the Pacific Asia Travel Association as a “Face of the Future”, highlighting his profile as an emerging leader in regional tourism.

His career has also extended into national policy leadership. As Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Solomon Islands, Mr Nihopara was involved in tourism policy development and implementation, contributing to efforts aimed at growing the sector and strengthening its role in the national economy.

Pictured standing (from L-R) Tourism Solomons Head of Corporate Services, Dagnal Dereveke; Tourism Solomons Board Director, John Foimua; Tourism Solomons Board Director, Zaccheus Sepo, and Tourism Solomons Head of Sales & Marketing, Fiona Teama.

Seated Tourism Solomons CEO, Andrew Nihopara (on left) and Tourism Solomons Board Chairman, Tony Langston.

Tourism Solomons Board Chairman Tony Langston said Mr Nihopara’s regional experience, strategic leadership and established profile across the Asia-Pacific tourism sector would be an asset as the organisation looks to build stronger momentum for the destination.

Mr Nihopara holds a Master of Commerce in Management and Public Administration and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management and Public Administration from the University of the South Pacific, as well as a Bachelor of Business Studies from Massey University in New Zealand.

His appointment follows a rigorous recruitment process conducted by KPMG Fiji and a three-member select committee appointed by the new Tourism Solomons Board on 09 July 2026. Mr Langston congratulated Mr Nihopara on his appointment and said the Board looked forward to working with him as Tourism Solomons enters its next chapter.