The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s tourism sector through strategic collaborations between the public and private sectors, as well as active engagement with local communities.
Speaking at the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) Stakeholders Engagement in Abuja, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Mrs. Hannatu Musawa, emphasized the critical role of partnerships in fostering sustainable tourism development. Represented by the Director of International Tourism, Mrs. Dorothy Duruaku, the Minister described the event as a significant platform for shaping the future of Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industries through collective input and shared vision.
Commending NIHOTOUR for organising the consultative forum, she underscored the importance of engaging industry stakeholders in discussions that influence policies and strategies for tourism advancement. She noted that tourism and hospitality intersect with various sectors, including transportation, local businesses, cultural heritage, and environmental sustainability. Effective collaboration with government bodies, private enterprises, and local communities is key to addressing industry challenges and leveraging emerging opportunities.
The Minister stressed that stakeholder engagement is essential for fostering responsible tourism practices, promoting innovation, and enhancing service quality. According to her, continuous dialogue ensures that both operators and regulators remain aligned in their efforts to improve visitor experiences and build a resilient tourism sector. By working together, industry players can create policies that reflect the evolving landscape and ensure that tourism’s economic, social, and environmental impacts remain positive.
Speaking on the NIHOTOUR Act 2022, she highlighted the Act’s significance in providing a structured legal framework for the institute’s operations. The Act, she explained, empowers NIHOTOUR to regulate and promote excellence in the tourism and hospitality sector through the development of industry standards, accredited training programs, and professional capacity building. Additionally, it strengthens the institute’s ability to collaborate with stakeholders, attract investments, and influence policy, all of which contribute to Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and global tourism markets.
The Minister acknowledged the transformative impact of the global pandemic on tourism and the need for renewed focus on sustainability and recovery. She expressed optimism about the industry’s future, stating that strengthened partnerships and collective resilience will position Nigeria as a top destination for both domestic and international travellers.
She further urged stakeholders to work hand-in-hand with the government and local communities to create an enabling environment for tourism to thrive. NIHOTOUR, she noted, plays a vital role in equipping industry professionals with the knowledge and skills required to drive innovation and policy development. The Minister encouraged participants to use the engagement as an opportunity to explore new trends and find solutions to industry challenges, such as adapting to changing travel patterns, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring that tourism benefits local communities.
Dr. Abisoye Fagade, Director General of NIHOTOUR, described the engagement as a turning point for Nigeria’s tourism, hospitality, and travel industries. He noted that conversations around tourism in Nigeria have not been encouraging and emphasised the need for renewed commitment from all stakeholders. He reiterated NIHOTOUR’s commitment to maintaining existing partnerships with the private sector and promised to uphold industry standards in line with the institute’s mandate. He also unveiled plans for another engagement with operators in Lagos to further deepen consultations and collaboration.
In his remarks, the President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, called on industry operators to cooperate with NIHOTOUR, particularly in addressing legislative concerns related to the NIHOTOUR Act 2022. He acknowledged concerns regarding the Act’s broad scope, which designates NIHOTOUR as both a training institute and a regulatory body. However, he urged stakeholders to work with NIHOTOUR’s leadership to refine the implementation of the law for the industry’s collective benefit.
Onung also highlighted the willingness of NIHOTOUR’s Director General to engage in further consultations and collaboration, encouraging industry operators to see the legal framework as a basis for progress rather than a point of contention.
The event concluded with a shared commitment from government representatives, tourism operators, and private sector players to strengthen cooperation and drive sustainable growth in Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality sector. The gathering served as a critical step in fostering industry-wide collaboration and setting the stage for a more structured and resilient tourism sector in Nigeria.
