nosa Aituamen
The National Association of Nigeria Travel Agency (NANTA) has warned against cross-border ticketing practices that have led to significant capital flight and erosion of the domestic market.
The body has therefore threatened to delist any members or industry stakeholders found to be involved.
President of NANTA, Mr. Yinka Folami who handed down the warning at the body’s Annual General Meeting in Lagos, decried the growing trend in which foreign travel agents sell tickets for flights originating from Nigeria, diverting revenue that should support the local industry.
Cross-border trading, occurs when foreign travel agencies process and complete bookings for Nigerian routes while retaining the revenue offshore, a move that contributes to capital flight and deprives the country of much-needed economic inflow and regulatory control.
President, National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies, NANTA, Mr. Yinka Folami, revealed that this cross-border trade now accounts for an estimated 40% of Nigeria’s travel market, a development he described as not only illegal but damaging to the growth and sustainability of indigenous businesses.
According to him, the practice undermines Nigeria’s financial systems, compromises data protection protocols, and circumvents regulatory oversight.
“Five global players were fingered in the West Africa counties and they are going through investigation for prosecution and these companies also operate in Nigeria and they are some of our prime suspects”.
Stressing on the theme of the AGM, “Collective Prosperity Through Market Protection”, Mr. Folami warned that Nigerian agents found complicit in facilitating this illicit trade would face delisting and prosecution, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
The commitment to fostering a healthy and ethical industry was echoed in a goodwill message from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo.
Represented by the Director of Special Duties at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr. Henry Agbebire, the Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s unwavering support for initiatives aimed at elevating industry standards, safeguarding legitimate market participants, and bolstering consumer trust.
“As you reflect on the past year and chart a bold course for the future, I urge you to continue upholding the values of transparency, innovation, and excellence”.
He assured NANTA of the Ministry’s dedication to establishing a conducive operational environment, acknowledging the pivotal role of travel agencies as integral partners within the air travel value chain.
Further emphasizing the need for a robust foundation, Professor ‘Kemi Pinheiro delivered a keynote address centered on the theme: “Building a Legally Grounded, Ethically Driven, and Globally Respected Association.”
Professor Pinheiro passionately urged NANTA to undertake a comprehensive review of its constitution.
He expressed his conviction that with a sound legal framework, strong governance principles, the adoption of high ethical standards, and a unified collective resolve, NANTA possesses the potential to evolve beyond a national symbol into a globally esteemed leader within the broader travel and tourism landscape.
“The constitution of an association is the organic instrument which confers powers and also creates rights and limitations. It regulates the affairs of the members, binding the members by its provisions. It is the supreme guide for all its activities”.
A major highlight of the AGM was the relaunch of the association’s official identification card and its revamped website and mobile app, part of ongoing reforms aimed at fostering transparency, member accountability, and improved service delivery across the sector.