Nigeria’s Tourism Sector Confronts Regulatory Hurdles Amid Ongoing Reforms
In recent months, Nigeria’s tourism industry has been grappling with complex regulatory challenges that show little sign of resolution. Despite concerted efforts from stakeholders, the situation remains precarious.
This regulatory upheaval has arisen in response to widespread calls for substantial reform, spearheaded by the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), which serves as the primary representative body for the private tourism sector.
While reforms are in progress, existing legislation appears misaligned with the private sector’s survival needs, particularly in light of the broader economic climate in Nigeria. The foundational laws stem from the National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) Act and the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) Act, which exhibit significant overlap.
The private sector, once again, finds itself sidelined, facing compliance mandates without adequate consultation on controversial aspects of the law. FTAN indicates that while contentious issues have been identified and communicated to relevant government bodies, discussions with stakeholders prior to enforcement have been minimal, disadvantaging private tourism businesses.
Insights into these challenges emerged during a media event organized by FTAN in Lagos, where leaders outlined the federation’s achievements in its inaugural year. FTAN Chairman Badaki Aliyu acknowledged the ongoing reforms across various sectors but stressed the urgent need for a thorough review of tourism regulations.
Aliyu, currently a PhD candidate, urged the Federal Government to return both the NIHOTOUR and NTDA Acts to the National Assembly for comprehensive re-evaluation. He argued that the existing framework creates unnecessary regulatory duplication and conflict, inhibiting the industry’s growth.
Further delving into the complexities, Aliyu highlighted that the implementation of the NIHOTOUR Act 2022 has sparked a wave of disputes and legal challenges. He lamented that the current legal structure lacks clarity regarding the responsibilities of government agencies versus industry stakeholders, leading to confusion that undermines operational integrity.
Aliyu expressed concerns that rather than safeguarding private business interests, certain industry participants are unwittingly acting as enforcers for government agencies, complicating compliance efforts. He appealed for a collaborative approach, urging the federal government to expedite legislative reviews aligning with its “New Hopes” agenda.
Despite unresolved tensions, Aliyu communicated optimism regarding future engagements with the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy. He mentioned that the minister had urged a pause on direct implementation of the law, but these recommendations have frequently gone unheeded.
With a view toward constructive dialogue, Aliyu called for both NIHOTOUR and NTDA to revert temporarily to their original mandates, which focus on reducing conflict and stabilizing the sector. He reaffirmed FTAN’s commitment to advocating for policies that enhance the business environment within tourism while not opposing government initiatives.
Reflecting on its accomplishments, FTAN noted significant progress under the Tourism Transformation Mission (TTM), which intends to reshape organizational frameworks for the industry. The federation has dedicated its first year to identifying structural barriers that hinder Nigeria’s tourism growth.
Plans are also in motion to strengthen local chapters and establish zonal structures across Nigeria to enhance grassroots participation. According to Aliyu, the goal is to build a more responsive private sector organization that can deliver effective leadership to Nigeria’s tourism landscape.
Over the past year, FTAN has successfully rebuilt collaborative relationships with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy and other key agencies, which has fostered improved communication and solidified FTAN’s standing as the authoritative voice for organized tourism in Nigeria.
Among the outcomes of these efforts is the restoration of ties with the ECOWAS Commission and enhanced cooperation with COPITOUR, as well as bolstered engagement with regional tourism organizations. FTAN has also secured support from ECOWAS to host the COPITOUR Executive Meeting in Abuja during the upcoming Nigeria Tourism Investors Forum and Exhibition (NTIFE), an event poised to attract significant investment and strengthen Nigeria’s role as a tourism hub in West Africa.
This year, FTAN also expanded the scope of the NTIFE, transforming it into a broader investment platform aimed at drawing in investors, development partners, and financial institutions. Enhancements in media engagement and stakeholder communication over the past year have bolstered the federation’s visibility and influence within the Nigerian tourism sector.
Building on the momentum of its inaugural year, FTAN aims to intensify advocacy efforts next year, seeking policy reforms and legislation that foster investment-friendly conditions aligned with its transformation mission.
