The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has initiated a strategic partnership with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to enforce industry standards in Nigeria’s tourism, hospitality, and travel sectors. The move is aimed at addressing the influx of expatriates in key positions within the industry and ensuring fair labor practices for Nigerian professionals.
During a meeting with the Comptroller General of Immigration, the Director General of NIHOTOUR, Aare (Dr.) Abisoye Fagade, FIMC, highlighted concerns over the employment of expatriates, including individuals from war-torn regions and smaller African nations, who earn salaries in foreign currencies while Nigerian professionals, despite having equal or superior qualifications, receive significantly lower wages in Naira. This imbalance, according to NIHOTOUR, is exacerbated by the lack of regulatory oversight in the issuance of work permits.
NIHOTOUR is advocating for the inclusion of its certification as a compulsory requirement for expatriates applying for work visas in Nigeria’s hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors. This measure would ensure that only professionals meeting the country’s industry standards are allowed to work in these fields. The institute is also calling for the establishment of a joint committee with the NIS to review all Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) work permits issued to expatriates in the hospitality and tourism industry. The committee would verify that foreign professionals possess both NIHOTOUR certification and the necessary immigration documentation.
Additionally, NIHOTOUR is proposing a structured training program for immigration officers at Nigerian airports to enhance their professional conduct and improve travelers’ experiences. The initiative aims to eliminate cases of extortion, foster a more welcoming environment for visitors, and generate additional revenue for both NIHOTOUR and the NIS.
The collaboration between NIHOTOUR and the NIS seeks to promote fairness, professionalism, and the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s tourism sector. By ensuring expatriates meet the same industry standards as their Nigerian counterparts, the initiative aims to enhance the quality and global competitiveness of the country’s hospitality and tourism industry.
NIHOTOUR reaffirmed its commitment to elevating Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality sector to international standards and pledged to continue engaging key stakeholders to achieve this vision.