NIHOTOUR, FTAN Pen Collaboration Accord, Move to Defuse Tension

By Stella Okocha 

The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) and the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) have agreed to strengthen collaboration and dialogue in a bid to resolve lingering issues surrounding the implementation of the NIHOTOUR Act 2022 and advance the professionalisation of Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality sector.

The agreement followed a strategic meeting between the leadership of both organisations in Abuja on Wednesday September 9, 2026, where they reaffirmed their commitment to working together in support of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

In a joint statement signed by the Director-General of NIHOTOUR, Dr Abisoye Fagade, and FTAN President, Dr Aliyu Badaki, the organisations said industry-related disputes would be better addressed through continuous dialogue, mutual respect, evidence-based engagement and due process.

They also agreed that all pending litigation relating to the implementation of the NIHOTOUR Act 2022 would be pursued towards an amicable resolution through dialogue and due process, in the interest of unity within the tourism industry.

NIHOTOUR reaffirmed that its statutory responsibilities are focused on promoting professional standards, competence, accountability and the orderly development of Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sector.

The Institute also acknowledged the role of FTAN as the umbrella body representing the organised private sector in tourism and hospitality, noting the importance of industry stakeholders working together to build a vibrant tourism economy.

FTAN, on its part, reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with NIHOTOUR in advancing the interests of tourism businesses, professionals and practitioners across the country.

Both organisations noted that Nigeria’s tourism industry has significant potential to contribute to job creation, skills development, investment, economic diversification, cultural preservation and national development.

They stressed, however, that unlocking this potential would require stronger partnerships between government institutions and private-sector stakeholders.

As part of the agreement, NIHOTOUR and FTAN resolved to:

– Strengthen professionalism and standards across the hospitality, tourism and travel sectors;

– Establish a joint committee comprising representatives of both organisations to examine issues surrounding the NIHOTOUR Act 2022, identify areas requiring clarification and develop practical recommendations and a mutually agreed pathway forward;

– Use the committee as a structured platform for sustained consultation between NIHOTOUR and industry stakeholders;

– Address areas of concern through continuous dialogue and constructive engagement;

– Support skills development, employment and opportunities for Nigerian tourism professionals; and

– Promote a more predictable and investment-friendly environment for the tourism industry.

The two organisations described the meeting as an important step towards a new era of partnership and shared responsibility, stressing that the growth and success of Nigeria’s tourism industry should take precedence over institutional or organisational differences.

They pledged to continue engaging and collaborating towards building a stronger, more professional and globally competitive tourism industry capable of delivering greater economic and social benefits to Nigerians