The Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Dr Abisoye Fagade, has called for sweeping reforms in Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality industry, describing it as a critical driver of economic diversification and job creation.
Speaking at a breakfast meeting with journalists, Dr Fagade underscored the urgent need for the full implementation of the NIHOTOUR Establishment Act, 2022. He argued that without the operationalisation of the legislation, the sector risks being unable to compete globally.
“There is no way you can have reform without enforcement,” Fagade said. “Our children should be proud to aspire to become hotel managers or tour guides. But that won’t happen if the sector remains unstructured and lacks professional standards.”
He clarified misconceptions surrounding NIHOTOUR’s recent regulatory activities, stating unequivocally that the Institute does not grade hotels but is mandated to regulate service standards and certify hospitality professionals.
“My concern is not with hotel grading,” he said. “My focus is on service quality, staff performance, and compliance with professional standards. That’s what the NIHOTOUR Act empowers us to do.”
Dr. Fagade added that the 2022 Act was designed to professionalise the sector, protect workers’ rights, and enhance national development through capacity building, standardisation, and certification.
He highlighted that cultural and religious tourism, if properly harnessed, could generate more revenue than Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
“No industry can thrive globally without regulation,” he noted, adding that NIHOTOUR’s oversight extends to critical issues such as healthcare, insurance, and proper qualifications for hospitality personnel.
He urged private sector players to self-regulate and support reforms aimed at elevating Nigeria’s tourism industry to global standards.
“There is honour in hospitality professions,” he concluded, “but we cannot achieve that honour unless the sector is organised, professional, and respected.”