Year: 2026

Minister urges tertiary institutions to strengthen partnerships

The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Aare Dr. Abisoye Fagade, has commended the Federal Government for lifting the suspension on regulatory activities within Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sector, describing the decision as a significant step towards revitalising the industry and advancing inclusive sector development.

Aare Fagade made this known while speaking at the National Hospitality and Tourism Stakeholders Forum, organised by the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) in Abuja, under the theme “Shaping the Future of Nigerian Tourism Together.” The forum brought together key stakeholders across the public and private sectors to deliberate on strategies for strengthening collaboration, improving standards, and driving sustainable progress within the industry.

He noted that the directive of the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, alongside the introduction of a concessionary framework offering discounts and flexible onboarding pathways, reflects a deliberate and strategic effort to deepen industry participation and enhance compliance.

According to him, the intervention aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which prioritises economic diversification, job creation, and the development of high-impact sectors such as 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,” he stated.

Aare Fagade further highlighted NIHOTOUR’s dual mandate as both a regulatory and developmental institution, emphasising its focus on building a skilled, certified, and globally competitive workforce to support the sector.

He disclosed that the Institute is currently deploying the National Registration Portal (NRP), a transformative digital platform designed to formalise the industry through the registration, certification, and verification of tourism practitioners and institutions nationwide.

“The National Registration Portal is critical to addressing existing gaps in certification and compliance. It will improve service standards, strengthen industry credibility, and unlock economic opportunities for practitioners across the country,” he added.

Aare Fagade also acknowledged the leadership of the Director-General of the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority for convening the timely stakeholders forum, noting that such engagements are essential for fostering alignment and collective action across the sector.

He observed that a significant portion of Nigeria’s tourism workforce currently operates outside formal regulatory structures, a challenge that continues to impact service delivery and international competitiveness.

He therefore called on key stakeholders, including private sector operators, industry associations, and state governments, to take full advantage of the Federal Government’s concessionary framework and actively participate in the ongoing reform process.

Reaffirming NIHOTOUR’s commitment to enabling progress, Aare Fagade stressed that regulation should be seen as a tool for advancement rather than a limitation.

“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.

He concluded by urging sustained collaboration among stakeholders as a foundation for building a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism sector that reflects Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and vast economic potential.

The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), an agency under the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, remains committed to strengthening professional standards, capacity development, and regulatory excellence within Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality industry.

The Pioneer and Former Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State, Engr. Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed (FNSE), was celebrated in grand style at the historic inauguration of the 6th and first female Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Ogbomoso Branch, held on March 31, 2026. Recognised as one of the distinguished awardees at the epoch-making ceremony, the honour bestowed on him underscores his visionary leadership, professional integrity, and foundational contributions that continue to shape the growth trajectory of Federal Polytechnic Ayede and the engineering profession at large.

Other eminent personalities who were also recognised at the prestigious ceremony include Prof. R. O. Rom-Kalilu, Vice Chancellor, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology(LAUTECH) ably represented by the University Librarian, Prof Adefunke Sarah Ebijuwa ; Engr. Ademola Agodo, FNSE, MD Protogy Global Services and Former Vice President (NSE); and Engr. Dawud A. Sulayman (JP), Principal Partner, Sulaymaniyyah Chambers, Maitama Abuja—distinguished figures whose presence further amplified the significance of the occasion.

In his remarks, the former Rector expressed heartfelt appreciation for the honour and offered inspiring words to the newly inaugurated executives. He urged them to embrace the responsibility of leadership and advance the objectives of the NSE and MAPWEN to greater heights, while praying for divine guidance and success throughout their tenure. Demonstrating loyalty and unity, Engr. Abdul-Hameed reaffirmed his dual membership of the NSE Osogbo (Omoluabi Branch) and NSE Ogbomoso (Valiant Branch), noting that following the courtesy visit paid to him during his rectorship, he resolved to remain steadfastly committed to both branches—whether in office or beyond. His pledge to “continue to do the needful as at when due” reflects a spirit of enduring service that transcends official designation.

The ceremony, which inaugurated Engr. Prof. Alice Oluwafunke Oke as the 6th Chairman of the Valiant Branch, attracted leading figures from academia, industry, and public service. In her acceptance speech, she pledged alignment with the NSE strategic framework, deeper collaborations, strengthened professional development platforms, enhanced inclusiveness through APWEN and young engineers’ engagement, an intensified membership drive, and the completion of the ongoing Branch Secretariat project. The event also featured a thought-provoking lecture by Tayo Arulogun, Vice Chancellor of Miva Open University, who spoke on blended learning in professional education, enriching the intellectual depth of the gathering.

As tributes poured in from colleagues, institutional leaders, and stakeholders, one message resonated clearly: Engr. Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed (FNSE) remains a bridge-builder, mentor, and institution-builder whose influence extends far beyond tenure. His transformative stewardship at Federal Polytechnic Ayede, unwavering commitment to the NSE, and enduring dedication to excellence continue to inspire confidence and progress within Oyo State and across Nigeria.

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sector have called for urgent policy reforms, improved coordination, and enhanced service standards to boost inbound tourism and position the country as a competitive global destination.
This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the National Hospitality and Tourism Stakeholders’ Forum convened by the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), held on March 31, 2026, in Abuja.
The forum, which attracted participants from federal and state ministries, tourism agencies, hospitality operators, investors, development partners, and traditional institutions, was themed “Shaping the Future of Nigerian Tourism Together.”
Participants noted that despite Nigeria’s vast cultural heritage, diverse ecosystems, and growing creative industry, the country has yet to fully harness its tourism potential, particularly in attracting international visitors.
They stressed that inbound tourism remains a critical pathway for foreign exchange earnings, job creation, and economic diversification, urging government at all levels to create an enabling environment that meets global standards.
Central to the discussions was the need to adopt and enforce a unified national standardisation framework for the hospitality sector, covering service delivery, safety, hygiene, staff training, and facility classification.
According to stakeholders, improving quality assurance and aligning with international best practices would significantly enhance Nigeria’s attractiveness to foreign tourists and boost investor confidence.
The communiqué also highlighted key structural challenges, including weak inter-agency coordination, regulatory overlaps, and limited access to incentives, which continue to hinder sector growth.
Stakeholders therefore called for stronger institutional synergy, clearer regulatory frameworks, and greater fiscal accountability, particularly in the management of tourism development initiatives.
They further urged the National Assembly to review overlapping mandates among tourism-related agencies and consider legislative reforms to strengthen governance and efficiency in the sector.
On infrastructure and capacity, participants emphasised the need for sustained investment in tourism facilities, human capital development, and professionalisation of the industry to meet global expectations.
Security perception also featured prominently, with stakeholders calling for a coordinated national reorientation to improve Nigeria’s image and reassure prospective international visitors.
The forum underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in driving innovation, expanding market access, and unlocking the full value of the tourism ecosystem.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively with the NTDA and other stakeholders to reposition Nigeria as an attractive and competitive tourism destination.
They expressed optimism that with the right mix of policy support, investment, and coordination, the sector could emerge as a major contributor to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product and a key driver of inbound tourism.

The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has intensified efforts to position Nigeria as a leading global destination, with a renewed focus on boosting inbound tourism and attracting international visitors.
Director-General of the Authority, Ola Awakan, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja at the maiden National Hospitality and Tourism Stakeholders’ Forum themed “Shaping the Future of Nigerian Tourism Together.”
Awakan said the NTDA is repositioning itself as the country’s chief tourism marketing agency, with deliberate strategies aimed at increasing foreign tourist arrivals and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global tourism market.
According to him, Nigeria’s vast eco-tourism assets, rich cultural heritage, and globally recognised creative industry provide a strong foundation to attract international travellers.
“We are focused on expanding inbound tourism and positioning it as a viable export sector capable of generating foreign exchange earnings for the country,” he said.
He noted that the Authority would leverage storytelling and strategic marketing campaigns to reshape global perceptions about Nigeria, projecting authentic narratives that reflect the country’s diversity and cultural richness.
Awakan also advocated for a more visa-friendly regime, stressing that simplified entry processes are critical to encouraging travel, boosting investor confidence, and improving Nigeria’s global tourism ranking.
“As a nation, we must make it easier for people to visit. A seamless visa process is key to unlocking inbound tourism potential,” he added.
The NTDA boss further revealed plans to deploy digital platforms that will showcase Nigeria’s tourism offerings, integrate booking systems, and provide seamless access to information for prospective visitors.
He identified Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism as a strategic segment that could significantly drive international traffic into the country, noting that business tourism remains a major contributor to global travel flows.
Awakan also highlighted the proposed “Naija Flavour Marketplace” as a key initiative that would connect local service providers to global audiences, improve visibility for tourism operators, and enhance visitor experience.
In addition, he disclosed plans for the development of an international Tourism City, envisioned as a one-stop destination that integrates culture, entertainment, hospitality, and commerce.
He said the project would serve as a flagship attraction capable of drawing tourists from across the world while showcasing Nigeria’s identity in a modern and immersive way.
Awakan acknowledged that challenges such as infrastructure gaps, weak coordination, and limited global visibility have hindered the sector, but expressed confidence that ongoing reforms and stakeholder collaboration would address these issues.
He emphasised that partnerships with the private sector, sub-national governments, and industry bodies such as the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) would be critical to achieving sustained growth.
“The future of Nigerian tourism lies in our ability to work together to build a sector that is globally competitive, investment-friendly, and attractive to visitors,” he said.
He added that the stakeholders’ forum would serve as a continuous platform for engagement, policy alignment, and collective action to drive tourism development.
Awakan expressed optimism that with the right policies and sustained commitment, inbound tourism would emerge as a major driver of economic growth, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings for Nigeria.