Abuja-
In its quest at fostering cordial working relationship between both private and public sectors of Nigeria’s tourism sector, the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), led by its President, Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, paid a courtesy visit to Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, yesterday, at the Ministry Headquarters in Abuja.
The meeting underscored the private sector’s commitment to collaborating with the government in advancing tourism development in the country.
Strengthening Public-Private Sector Collaboration
During the visit, Mr. Nkereuwem Onung emphasized the private sector’s recognition of the Honourable Minister’s strategic blueprint, which integrated tourism into the Ministry’s portfolio in 2024. He outlined FTAN’s mission as a unifying body for various tourism associations, working alongside the government to drive policies that enhance the sector’s growth.
Highlighting the need for stronger public-private partnerships, he addressed concerns regarding legislative frameworks governing the National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) and the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA).
Onung further commended the ongoing policy efforts, but pointed out potential conflicts between these regulations and urged for continued dialogue to resolve discrepancies affecting private-sector operations.
Barr. Hannatu Musa-Musawa, Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy with Mr. Onung Nkereuwem, President, Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN)
Key Industry Challenges and Proposals
FTAN delegates raised several pressing issues impacting the sector, including:
- Multiple taxation in the hospitality industry, which hinders business growth.
- Stronger state-level participation through the creation of a Council of Tourism Commissioners to drive tourism development nationwide.
- Nigeria’s presence in global tourism markets, advocating for more participation in international tourism exhibitions to promote the country’s destinations.
- Revitalization of the Presidential Council on Tourism (PCT) to ensure high-level governmental support for tourism policies.
- Establishment of a Tourism Satellite Account to accurately measure tourism’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP.
- Call for a National Tourism Summit, bringing together stakeholders to address industry-wide challenges and map out a sustainable roadmap for sectoral growth.
Minister’s Commitment to Tourism Advancement
In response, Honourable Minister Hannatu Musa-Musawa expressed appreciation for FTAN’s proactive engagement, acknowledging the vital role of the private sector in tourism development. She assured the delegation of her Ministry’s commitment to strengthening collaboration and addressing key industry challenges.
She also confirmed ongoing efforts to revive the Presidential Council on Tourism (PCT), with detailed discussions planned for the upcoming National Council of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy in Oshogbo. Additionally, she committed to convening a National Tourism Summit, ensuring comprehensive stakeholder input in shaping the country’s tourism policies.
Moving Forward
The Honourable Minister reaffirmed her dedication to prioritizing tourism growth, aligning it with national economic goals. She commended FTAN for its advocacy and assured that the government would work closely with industry stakeholders to unlock Nigeria’s full tourism potential.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, signaling a new era of cooperation between the government and the private sector in repositioning Nigeria as a leading tourism destination.
