By Jimoh Babatunde

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sector have called for urgent policy reforms, improved coordination, and enhanced service standards to boost inbound tourism and position the country as a competitive global destination.

This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the National Hospitality and Tourism Stakeholders’ Forum convened by the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), held during the week in Abuja.

The forum, which attracted participants from federal and state ministries, tourism agencies, hospitality operators, investors, development partners, and traditional institutions, was themed “Shaping the Future of Nigerian Tourism Together.”

Participants noted that despite Nigeria’s vast cultural heritage, diverse ecosystems, and growing creative industry, the country has yet to fully harness its tourism potential, particularly in attracting international visitors.

They stressed that inbound tourism remains a critical pathway for foreign exchange earnings, job creation, and economic diversification, urging government at all levels to create an enabling environment that meets global standards.

Central to the discussions was the need to adopt and enforce a unified national standardisation framework for the hospitality sector, covering service delivery, safety, hygiene, staff training, and facility classification.

According to stakeholders, improving quality assurance and aligning with international best practices would significantly enhance Nigeria’s attractiveness to foreign tourists and boost investor confidence.
The communiqué also highlighted key structural challenges, including weak inter-agency coordination, regulatory overlaps, and limited access to incentives, which continue to hinder sector growth.

Stakeholders therefore called for stronger institutional synergy, clearer regulatory frameworks, and greater fiscal accountability, particularly in the management of tourism development initiatives.
They further urged the National Assembly to review overlapping mandates among tourism-related agencies and consider legislative reforms to strengthen governance and efficiency in the sector.

On infrastructure and capacity, participants emphasised the need for sustained investment in tourism facilities, human capital development, and professionalisation of the industry to meet global expectations.
Security perception also featured prominently, with stakeholders calling for a coordinated national reorientation to improve Nigeria’s image and reassure prospective international visitors.

The forum underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in driving innovation, expanding market access, and unlocking the full value of the tourism ecosystem.

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively with the NTDA and other stakeholders to reposition Nigeria as an attractive and competitive tourism destination.

They expressed optimism that with the right mix of policy support, investment, and coordination, the sector could emerge as a major contributor to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product and a key driver of inbound tourism.

Meanwhile, industry players commended the administration of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for creating an enabling environment that has attracted investment and repositioned key assets such as the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort.

Speakers noted that the state’s deliberate policies and strategic partnerships have boosted its appeal as a leading leisure and wellness destination.

Also speaking at the event, the General Manager, Glocient Hospitality, Lanre Balogun, spotlighted Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort as a leading destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), noting its unique blend of business and leisure offerings.

Known for its rare confluence of warm and cold springs, the resort provides modern conference facilities, executive accommodation, and wellness experiences, making it an attractive option for corporate retreats and high-level engagements outside major urban centres.

According to Balogun, growing demand for destination-driven corporate experiences positions Ikogosi as a viable alternative for local and international organisations seeking secure, accessible, and rejuvenating venues. The company reaffirmed its commitment to driving operational excellence and partnerships that will enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global tourism and hospitality market.