In the ever-evolving world of travel and tourism, staying ahead means adopting the highest standards and preparing professionals to navigate the dynamic global landscape. This has been the focus in Nigeria’s travel trade scene, where key institutions are coming together to raise the bar for professionalism and excellence in the hospitality and tourism sector. The efforts being made are not only setting a shining example for Nigeria but are also capturing the attention of Ghana, other West African nations, and the broader African continent.
Strengthening the backbone of any industry begins with quality training, and this philosophy is being actively championed by the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR). Under the leadership of Dr. Abisoye Fagade, NIHOTOUR is making deliberate moves to foster cooperation with the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA), recognizing NANTA as a vital force for upholding integrity in the industry. Dr. Fagade has publicly acknowledged how NANTA’s robust approach to continuous training and upskilling is having a transformative effect on travel professionals across the country.
“It’s clear that NANTA is well ahead in promoting excellence and professionalism within our country’s travel agencies,” Fagade shared during a recent industry meeting. “By taking training so seriously, they’re not only producing experts but are paving a pathway for newcomers to learn according to the highest international standards. NIHOTOUR is fully committed to supporting NANTA’s ambitions, including the creation of a specialized academy tailored to serve and regulate the travel trade.”
The importance of such a centralized training system cannot be overstated. Nigeria’s travel market has witnessed instances of unqualified individuals gaining entry, undermining the trust that clients place in their travel consultants. By establishing structured training and credentialing as a minimum requirement—much like licensing a professional driver or accrediting a medical doctor—the sector is poised to shed the challenges of quackery and elevate the overall experience for travelers.
“Imagine a future where anyone seeking a career in travel must first pass through a rigorous, NANTA-vetted training process,” Dr. Fagade proposed. “This would not only secure clients’ confidence but also ensure sustainable growth and innovation in the Nigerian travel industry. Such collaboration is exactly what we need to build a world-class sector that is respected on the global stage.”
Change does not happen in isolation. The travel industry is affected by economic reforms, technological disruptions, and the fast-changing preferences of both leisure and business travelers. According to Yinka Folami, current president of NANTA, these changes require resilience and collective effort from all stakeholders. “Nigerians—and indeed, West Africans—are navigating a wave of economic shifts. It’s a time that calls for patience, patriotism, and a strong sense of community,” Folami remarked during the gathering. He noted that NANTA’s unwavering commitment to regulations aligns seamlessly with recent government reforms designed to position Nigerian travel professionals to meet international benchmarks.
To illustrate NANTA’s proactive stance, Folami recounted how the association was among the first to petition the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for official oversight of travel agencies—a move that laid the groundwork for stricter compliance and elevated standards. Global accreditation, like obtaining International Air Transport Association (IATA) certification, has also become central for reputable agents, and NANTA has facilitated members’ access to such elite recognition by collaborating with regulatory bodies like NIHOTOUR on specialized training programs.
“Our long-standing partnership with NIHOTOUR is a testament to the progress we have achieved,” Folami stated. “With each training session, we are building a resilient community of travel experts who can compete not only across Africa but on a worldwide platform.”
Resilience has defined the sector, especially during unprecedented disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic. Former NANTA president Susan Akporiaye reflected on how the pandemic, while presenting severe challenges, also became a catalyst for positive transformation. “It was a tough period, no doubt, but it forced us to rethink our strategies for survival and growth. That’s when we conceived the idea of a dedicated training academy to provide continuous capacity-building,” Akporiaye recounted. Since its inception, and under the leadership of Ibiwari Kemabonta, this academy has blossomed into a renowned hub, equipping both seasoned agents and new entrants with crucial skills—from mastering digital booking systems to understanding ever-changing international travel protocols.
The ripple effect of these reforms is already being felt. Nigerian travel professionals are beginning to see greater opportunities for career advancement, with some seeing their credentials open doors to jobs in neighboring Ghana, across West Africa, and even in Europe and North America. Small business owners have commented on how regulated entry, backed by robust training, boosts customer confidence, raises service quality, and weeds out fraudsters who once tarnished the sector’s reputation. A travel agency owner in Lagos shared, “Clients now ask for credentials. They’re more aware, and it’s changing our business for the better.”
At the same time, the global spotlight on Africa’s burgeoning travel market means that expectations are higher than ever. As international travelers and corporate partners look toward the continent, they want assurance that local standards meet—or exceed—what they find elsewhere. That is why initiatives led by bodies like NIHOTOUR and NANTA matter, not only for Nigeria, but also for the broader region. Ghanaian and other West African agencies are watching closely, and the success stories emerging out of Nigeria serve as blueprints for similar partnerships and training programs in neighboring countries.
For everyday Nigerians considering a career move, or students weighing options in hospitality and tourism, the message is clear: solid training, regulatory compliance, and professional accreditation lay the foundation for lasting success. As more institutes like the NANTA Academy expand their reach, there are now accessible pathways to join a respected, well-regulated industry with the potential to impact economies and communities across the continent.
Looking ahead, the future of Nigerian travel and hospitality rests on continuous collaboration, innovation, and investment in human capital. The standards being set today will determine how the sector grows and how it is perceived by the rest of the world. The question now is: Are you ready to take your place in a world-class travel industry? How do you think more rigorous training and professional standards can shape the future of West African tourism? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. If you have a personal story or insight to share from your journey in the travel trade or hospitality sector, remember that NowahalaZone welcomes submissions—your story could inspire others across Africa and globally.
