The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) and the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) have agreed to strengthen collaboration and resolve outstanding issues surrounding the implementation of the 2022 NIHOTOUR Act through dialogue and due process.
The commitment followed a strategic meeting between the leadership of both organisations in Abuja on Wednesday to discuss the Act and the professionalisation of Nigeria’s hospitality, tourism and travel industry.
In a joint statement signed by NIHOTOUR Director-General, Dr Abisoye Fagade, and FTAN President, Dr Aliyu Badaki, the organisations agreed that issues affecting the sector were best addressed through continuous dialogue, mutual respect, evidence-based engagement and constructive collaboration.
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They also agreed that all pending litigation relating to the implementation of the NIHOTOUR Act 2022 would be addressed amicably through dialogue and due process in the interest of unity in the tourism industry.
NIHOTOUR reaffirmed that its responsibilities were aimed at promoting professional standards, competence, accountability and orderly development of the sector.
The Institute also recognised the role of FTAN as the umbrella body representing the organised private sector in shaping a vibrant tourism economy.
For its part, FTAN reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with NIHOTOUR in advancing the interests of tourism businesses, professionals and practitioners across the country.
The two organisations noted that Nigeria’s tourism industry had significant potential to contribute to job creation, skills development, investment, economic diversification, cultural preservation and national development.
They stressed that achieving this potential required government institutions and the private sector to work together as partners with a shared vision.
NIHOTOUR and FTAN also agreed to strengthen professionalism and standards across the hospitality, tourism and travel sectors.
They agreed to establish a joint committee comprising representatives of NIHOTOUR and FTAN to deliberate further on the issues raised, examine areas requiring clarification in the NIHOTOUR Act 2022 and develop practical recommendations and a mutually agreed pathway forward.
The two organisations said the committee would provide a structured platform for continued consultation and engagement between NIHOTOUR and industry stakeholders.
Other areas of agreement included addressing concerns through continuous dialogue and constructive engagement, supporting skills development and employment opportunities for Nigerian professionals, and creating a more predictable and investment-friendly tourism environment.
