The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Aare Dr. Abisoye Fagade, has applauded the Federal Government’s decision to lift the suspension on regulatory activities in Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sector, describing it as a major boost for industry revitalisation and inclusive growth.
Speaking at the National Hospitality and Tourism Stakeholders Forum organised by the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority in Abuja, Fagade said the move signals a renewed commitment to strengthening the sector.
The forum, themed “Shaping the Future of Nigerian Tourism Together,” brought together key players from both public and private sectors to explore strategies for collaboration, improved standards, and sustainable development.
Fagade noted that the directive by the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, alongside a new concessionary framework offering discounts and flexible onboarding options, reflects a strategic effort to expand participation and boost compliance across the industry.
He added that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises economic diversification, job creation, and the development of key sectors like tourism.
“This is not merely a regulatory adjustment.
It is a forward-thinking strategy to reposition tourism as a key driver of national development.
It demonstrates a strong commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and global competitiveness,” Fagade said.
Highlighting NIHOTOUR’s dual role as both regulator and capacity builder, he emphasised the Institute’s focus on developing a skilled, certified, and globally competitive workforce.
A key part of this effort is the rollout of the National Registration Portal (NRP), a digital platform designed to formalise the sector through nationwide registration, certification, and verification of tourism practitioners and institutions.
According to Fagade, the portal will address longstanding gaps in compliance and certification, improve service delivery standards, and unlock economic opportunities within the sector.
He also commended the leadership of the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority for organising the forum, noting that such engagements are critical for fostering alignment and coordinated action across the industry.
Fagade pointed out that a large segment of Nigeria’s tourism workforce still operates outside formal regulatory frameworks, a challenge that continues to affect service quality and global competitiveness.
He urged stakeholders, including private operators, industry associations, and state governments—to leverage the Federal Government’s concessionary framework and actively engage in ongoing reforms.
Reaffirming NIHOTOUR’s commitment, he stressed that regulation should be viewed as a tool for growth rather than a barrier.
“We are not here to restrict progress, but to enable it.
We are not here to exclude, but to integrate.
A well-regulated industry is one that attracts investment, creates jobs, and earns global recognition,” he said.
Fagade concluded by calling for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to build a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism sector that reflects Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and economic potential.
The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), under the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, continues to play a key role in promoting professional standards, capacity development, and regulatory excellence in Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality industry.
Written by Chioma Ezike