***Calls for Dialogue and Reform
The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, has ordered the immediate suspension of all enforcement activities by the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) across the country.
The directive follows recent enforcement-related incidents in Lagos State and was issued by the Minister on Friday to allow for a more inclusive, transparent, and consultative engagement with stakeholders.
While reaffirming NIHOTOUR’s statutory mandate to regulate standards, maintain a register of professionals, and ensure compliance across Nigeria’s hospitality, tourism, and travel sectors, Minister Musawa emphasized the need for balance between enforcement and empathy.
“The industry must be driven by standards, but our approach must also reflect our shared humanity,” she said. “Compliance must not come at the expense of dialogue.”
The Minister announced plans to convene a multi-stakeholder roundtable in the coming weeks to harmonize expectations, deepen collaboration, and reposition the sector for sustainable growth in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
She also noted that this reflects the President’s compassionate leadership style, which blends justice with mercy.
Minister Musawa praised the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) and other professional bodies for their continued commitment to sectoral cohesion and national development.
She further reiterated her full support for NIHOTOUR’s transformation into a dynamic, responsive, and industry-aligned regulatory institution.
The Ministry remains committed to strengthening partnerships, fostering innovation, and building a tourism and hospitality ecosystem anchored on trust and shared prosperity.