The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) has advised its member associations not to participate in the ongoing Competency-Based Interview (CBI) and registration exercise organised by the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), citing non-compliance with government directives.
The advisory, issued on May 5, 2026, and signed by FTAN National President, Dr. Aliyu Ajayi Badaki, stated that the exercise contravenes instructions from the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa.
FTAN said NIHOTOUR commenced the registration and certification programme without concluding stakeholder consultations as directed by the ministry. The institute’s Director-General, Dr. Abisoye Fagade, had earlier invited some member associations to participate in the exercise through a letter dated April 30, 2026.
According to the federation, the ministry had mandated NIHOTOUR to engage the organised private sector and address concerns surrounding its enabling law before implementing any certification process. It described the institute’s action as premature and inconsistent with that directive.
The federation therefore urged its members to abstain from the exercise until all outstanding issues related to the law are resolved and a consensus is reached through proper stakeholder engagement.
FTAN reiterated its commitment to working with government agencies to promote tourism development but stressed that such collaboration must be inclusive and guided by clear agreements. It also called for unity among its members in upholding the federation’s position on the matter.
2026-05-05