By Yinka Folami
When a handful of travel agents gathered on Broad Street, Lagos, in November 1973, few could have predicted that their modest meeting would birth what is today Nigeria’s foremost travel trade association. At the time, the industry was fragmented, with individual agents operating in isolation—grappling with airline ticketing, visa processes, and client management without a unified voice or regulatory framework.
That gathering, convened by Jerry Onuoha Ibe Nwosu of SCAN Travel at John Holt Travel Agency, marked the formation of what was then known as the Nigerian Travel Agents Association (NATA). With pioneers such as Roxy Udo, the first Honorary President, and Tunde Akala, the first Vice President, the foundation was laid for what would later evolve into the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA).
Building Structure from Scratch
The early decades of the 1970s and 1980s were defined by institution-building. NANTA functioned primarily as an advocacy and networking body, striving to establish credibility among airlines and government agencies. It worked to harmonise operational standards, promote professionalism, and bring more agencies under a unified umbrella.
By the 1990s, the global travel industry was undergoing rapid transformation, driven by the introduction of computerised reservation systems (CRS) and global distribution systems (GDS). NANTA adapted, helping Nigerian travel agents transition into the era of automation, modernising ticketing processes and improving efficiency.
Legal Backing and Regulatory Influence
A turning point came with the Civil Aviation Act of 2006, which formally recognised travel agency business as part of Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem. Under this framework, travel agents were required to register with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) through NANTA to operate legally.
This development elevated NANTA from a voluntary association to a statutory gateway for travel agencies. It strengthened its regulatory role, enabling it to enforce standards, curb fraudulent practices, and maintain a reliable database of certified practitioners.
Today, NANTA stands as the umbrella body for IATA- and NCAA-registered travel agencies, playing a central role in shaping industry policies and safeguarding consumer interests.
Combating Fraud in the Industry
Fraudulent operators have long posed a challenge to Nigeria’s travel sector. In response, NANTA has implemented several initiatives to protect both its members and the travelling public.
A major milestone was achieved in 2018 under the leadership of Bankole Bernard, with the introduction of an industry-wide identity card system. Launched by then Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the initiative ensures that only verified agents can conduct business, while registered agencies display certificates with unique barcodes.
These measures have significantly enhanced transparency and trust within the industry.
Navigating Crisis and Recovery
NANTA’s resilience was tested during the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the most challenging periods in global travel history. With flights grounded and borders closed, travel agents faced unprecedented losses.
Under the leadership of Susan Akporiaye—one of only two female presidents in the association’s history—NANTA focused on advocacy, member support, and recovery strategies. The crisis also led to the establishment of a training academy aimed at strengthening capacity and professionalism in the sector.
In 2022, NANTA facilitated Nigeria’s return to the World Travel Market in London after an eight-year absence, restoring the country’s presence on the global tourism stage.
A New Era of Advocacy and Expansion
Under the current president, Dr Yinka Folami, NANTA is charting a forward-looking course centred on policy advocacy, inclusiveness, and professional development. His administration has prioritised engagement with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, NCAA, FAAN, IATA, and other industry players.
Efforts are also underway to tackle cross-border trading challenges, advocate for fair foreign exchange policies, and strengthen the association’s training programmes into a fully structured professional institute.
Beyond Nigeria, NANTA is expanding its footprint across Africa and has rejoined the United Federation of Travel Agents’ Associations (UFTAA), reinforcing its global relevance.
Five Decades of Impact
From a small group of determined professionals to an organisation representing over 4,000 registered agencies, NANTA’s journey mirrors the evolution of Nigeria’s travel industry itself.
Over the past 50 years, it has navigated political transitions, technological shifts, and global crises, emerging each time with renewed purpose. While challenges remain, its enduring legacy underscores the importance of unity, professionalism, and advocacy in building a sustainable travel sector.
As NANTA looks to the future—driving reforms, expanding partnerships, and nurturing the next generation of travel professionals—its story remains inseparable from that of Nigeria’s growing travel and tourism industry.
2026-04-16