Lagos: Stakeholders in Nigeria’s tourism sector have emphasized the need for increased professionalism, certification, and collaboration to foster sustainable growth in the industry. They voiced these concerns during a conference and awards ceremony organized by the Association of Nigerian Journalists and Writers of Tourism (ANJET) in Lagos, themed ‘The Role of International Hospitality Brands in The Growth of Nigerian Tourism and Economy’.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, ANJET President Mr. Okorie Uguru stated that the event aimed to assess Nigeria’s tourism progress and celebrate excellence within the industry. It also provided an opportunity to honor individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to the sector’s development over the last 40 years. Uguru highlighted the pivotal role of travel journalists since the 1960s in shaping the nation’s tourism narrative, emphasizing their importance as custodians of the industry’s institutional memory.
Dr. Abisoye Fagade, Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), stressed the urgent need to address the skills gap in Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality sector. He pointed out that many businesses in the sector struggle with sustainability due to a lack of skilled personnel and structured capacity building. Fagade advocated for certification and professional training, asserting that a skilled, certified workforce is essential for the success of any tourism initiative in Nigeria.
Olayiwola Awakan, Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), reiterated the authority’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to develop a vibrant and sustainable tourism economy. Represented by Mrs. Alice Akinsola, NTDA’s South-West Zonal Coordinator, Awakan emphasized the focus on inclusiveness, innovation, and destination development to strengthen Nigeria’s economy and position tourism as a key growth driver.
Awardee and former Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Olusegun Runsewe, expressed concern over the neglect of tourism in Nigeria. He highlighted that tourism is a major employer, second only to agriculture, and urged stakeholders to change their approach to building the industry into a prominent brand. Former Nigerian Ambassador to Greece, Franklin Ogbuewu, echoed the importance of integrating culture into tourism to attract foreign tourists seeking cultural experiences.