The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) has pledged to vigorously protect the interests of its members while intensifying efforts to reposition Nigeria’s tourism industry as a major driver of economic growth, investment and job creation.
Speaking at a press conference to mark one year of the current FTAN administration in Lagos, the federation’s President, Dr. Badaki Aliyu, said the body would continue implementing its Tourism Transformation Mandate (TTM) to address longstanding structural challenges facing the sector and create a more united and prosperous tourism industry.
Aliyu said the administration remained committed to providing credible leadership for the organised private tourism sector through stronger stakeholder engagement, improved governance and sustained advocacy for policies that would encourage investment and industry growth.
He assured members that FTAN would continue to defend their interests in national policy discussions and engage constructively with government to ensure a more enabling environment for tourism businesses.
On the controversy surrounding the implementation of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) Act, 2022, Aliyu said the federation inherited the dispute from the previous administration but remained committed to finding a lasting solution through dialogue.
“The position of FTAN is that both the NTDA and NIHOTOUR Acts should be returned to the National Assembly for re-enactment to clearly define the roles of the agencies and stakeholders. At the time being, the agencies should focus on their initial mandates while the process is ongoing. FTAN is always open to constructive engagement and dialogue in resolving the issues with the Acts,” he said.
He urged the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, to fast-track the review process in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Aliyu highlighted achievements recorded within the past year, including rebuilding collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, strengthening partnerships with the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) and restoring FTAN’s relationship with the ECOWAS Commission and other regional tourism organisations.
He also noted that the Nigeria Tourism Investors Forum and Exhibition (NTIFE) had been repositioned into a regional investment platform designed to attract investors, development partners and tourism businesses from across West Africa.
The FTAN president said the federation would continue advocating for policy alignment, regulatory reforms and investment-friendly policies while promoting Nigeria as the preferred destination for regional tourism meetings, investment forums and cross-border partnerships.
He reaffirmed the federation’s resolve to protect the collective interests of tourism operators by strengthening its state chapters, improving stakeholder communication and building a stronger, more influential organised private tourism sector.
According to him, FTAN remains committed to working with governments, investors and development partners to transform Nigeria into a globally competitive tourism destination while creating employment opportunities and attracting foreign direct investment.
