The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) has issued a strong warning to its member associations, advising them not to participate in the ongoing Competency-based Interview (CBI) and Registration Exercise conducted by the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR). The federation stated that the exercise does not align with legal requirements and the directive of the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, a lawyer.
Background of the Dispute
The advisory was contained in a letter from FTAN, the umbrella body for all private sector tourism operators and associations in Nigeria. This followed a prior communication from NIHOTOUR's Director General, Dr Abisoye Fagade, to some presidents of FTAN's member associations, requesting their participation in the exercise. The exercise commenced on May 5, 2026, based on a letter dated April 30, 2026, titled: 'Letter of award of pro-bono registration by the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism for certification and licensing.'
FTAN's Objections
In its advisory letter dated May 5, 2026, titled 'FTAN advisory on NIHOTOUR Competency-based Interview and Registration,' signed by FTAN National President Dr Aliyu Ajayi Badaki, the federation outlined its objections. The letter read in part: 'You will recall that the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy has directed NIHOTOUR to engage relevant stakeholders, particularly the organized private sector, in resolving the numerous concerns and controversies surrounding the provisions and implementation of its enabling law.'
The federation expressed concern that NIHOTOUR proceeded with the registration and certification process without concluding the required stakeholder engagement and consensus-building process mandated by the ministry. Consequently, FTAN strongly advised all member associations not to participate in the NIHOTOUR registration, certification, and CBI exercise.
Conditions for Future Participation
FTAN stated that member associations could only participate in the exercise under two conditions: first, all outstanding issues and controversies surrounding the law must be fully addressed; second, NIHOTOUR must comply with the ministry's directive to meaningfully engage stakeholders and reach a mutually agreed framework for implementation.
Commitment to Collaboration
Dr Badaki reaffirmed FTAN's readiness and commitment to partner with the government and its agencies in matters related to tourism development and promotion. He stated: 'FTAN remains fully committed to constructive dialogue and collaboration with government institutions in the overall interest of developing a sustainable and globally competitive tourism industry. However, such collaboration must be anchored on inclusiveness, clarity of roles, and respect for the contributions of the organized private sector.'
The federation urged its members to adhere to the directive, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in protecting the integrity, rights, and unified position of the private sector. The advisory concluded with assurances of FTAN's highest regards.
