The Federal Government has commended key players in Nigeria’s hospitality sector, particularly in Lagos, for their prompt compliance with the regulatory requirements instituted under the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) Act 2022.
The commendation was made during a recent compliance monitoring exercise carried out by NIHOTOUR in Lagos. The agency praised leading hospitality establishments—including Marriott, Radisson Blu, Black Diamond, Four Points by Sheraton, and The Sojourner—for registering their top management staff and aligning with national standards aimed at professionalising the industry.
The NIHOTOUR Act mandates the registration and certification of all operators within the hospitality and tourism value chain. The initiative is intended to enhance service delivery, promote industry standardisation, and build a comprehensive database to protect and promote employment opportunities for trained and certified Nigerians.
Supported by security operatives deployed by the Inspector General of Police, NIHOTOUR’s compliance team carried out a detailed audit and headcount of management staff in several top-tier hotels. The agency said it was encouraged by the level of cooperation and commitment to regulatory adherence.
“The response in Lagos has been impressive. These establishments are not only complying with the law but are also showing leadership in embracing professionalism in the sector,” a senior official of NIHOTOUR noted.
Meanwhile, the compliance process is also gaining momentum in Abuja, although a number of operators are still working to update their records and clear unresolved issues before full alignment with the mandate.
Reacting to the development, the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) welcomed the progress recorded in Lagos. FTAN President, Nkereweum Onung, described the ongoing exercise as a positive development, noting that it reflects increasing awareness within the industry about the importance of regulatory compliance.
“We are pleased with the current level of engagement, but we urge the government to be patient and open to dialogue with operators who are still seeking clarity or are yet to comply,” Onung said.
He also stressed the importance of strategic publicity and stronger collaboration between government agencies and industry associations to ensure wider compliance and sustainability of the initiative.
“FTAN remains committed to supporting the government’s regulatory efforts. We believe that with mutual understanding and commitment, the hospitality and tourism sector can achieve the growth and global competitiveness it deserves,” he added.