The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) Act 2022 and its 2025 Regulations are set for immediate enforcement following a directive from the Federal Government aimed at raising standards and boosting global competitiveness in Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry.
According to the Nation Newspaper, the move signals a renewed push to professionalise the sector through stricter regulatory oversight, certification requirements and compliance mechanisms designed to align Nigeria’s tourism workforce with international best practices.
The directive was conveyed by the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy in a letter dated February 26, 2026, signed by the Minister, Hannatu Musa Musawa.
Addressed to the Director-General of NIHOTOUR, Abisoye Fagade, the letter instructed the Institute to commence enforcement in line with the powers conferred by its establishing law and accompanying regulations.
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According to the Ministry, effective regulation of professionals and operators within the hospitality, travel and tourism industries is critical to repositioning the sector as a structured and globally competitive contributor to the national economy.
The Minister noted that enforcing standards for skills, ethics, safety and operations would enhance service delivery, strengthen consumer protection and promote sustainable growth. She added that the framework is designed to boost public confidence and align Nigeria’s tourism industry with national and international best practices.
The Ministry described the move as a step toward strengthening institutional governance, standardising training and certification, ensuring compliance with operational standards and improving investor confidence across the tourism value chain. NIHOTOUR has been directed to notify all relevant stakeholders, operators and practitioners within its regulatory scope to ensure immediate compliance.
