Oyo State plans to sanitise its travel and tour sector, focusing on unregistered operators. Registration drive starts March 24, 2024

The Oyo State government has announced plans to sanitise the state’s travel and tour sector by targeting unregistered travel agencies and allied tour operators.

The initiative, aimed at ensuring better service delivery and compliance with relevant regulations, was disclosed by the state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun, during a press conference on Monday in Ibadan, the state capital.

The event, organised in partnership with the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), sought to sensitise and raise awareness among operators about the government’s intentions to regulate the sector more effectively.

Olatunbosun stated, “The objective of the exercise is to inform the operators of travel and tour agencies, concerned stakeholders, and the general public about the government’s plans to sanitise the sector through registration of all travel and tour operators in the state.”

The commissioner highlighted the challenges posed by unlicensed operators, stating that many travel and tour agencies operating without the required licences fail to comply with industry laws.

These unregulated operators have been causing significant hardship for the public, with many clients experiencing subpar services. “Most of the tour and travel operators operating without licences fail to comply with the relevant laws and regulations that guide the industry and have caused untold hardship to members of the public as a result of the low standard of service,” he added.

As part of the sanitisation process, Olatunbosun explained that the registration of all travel and tour operators would enable the state government to create a comprehensive database.

This would allow for effective monitoring, evaluation, and regulation of agencies operating within the state, ensuring public safety and improving the quality of services provided.

The sensitisation campaign is set to begin on March 24, 2024, and will run for one month. During this period, operators will be encouraged to register and comply with the necessary regulations.

After the awareness phase, the government will implement enforcement measures, including sanctions against unregistered agencies that fail to meet the required standards.

PEBEC’s Director General, Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, reassures foreign investors that concerns over the cancellation of Nigeria’s Visa-On-Arrival (VOA) policy will be addressed, with efforts underway to balance security and investment interests

The Director General of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, has assured foreign investors that the Nigerian government is working to address concerns raised by the recent decision to discontinue the Visa-On-Arrival (VOA) policy.

Also read: Nigerian visa issues resolved for Akwaaba African travel market delegates

The announcement to phase out the VOA policy was made over the weekend by Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who described the policy as “unsustainable” and a potential security risk.

The decision has sparked apprehension among current and prospective investors who have relied on the VOA option, especially those from countries without Nigerian embassies or missions.

In a statement released on Monday, Princess Audu acknowledged these concerns and assured the international community that PEBEC is actively engaging with the Ministry of Interior to find a balanced and effective solution.

**“We understand the anxiety this has caused among the foreign community and would like to assure all stakeholders that PEBEC is actively engaging with the Minister of Interior to find a solution,”** she stated.

Princess Audu emphasized that the VOA policy has played a vital role in promoting tourism, trade, and foreign investment in Nigeria.

She expressed optimism that through dialogue and collaboration, the security issues raised could be resolved without compromising the ease of doing business in the country.

**“Our primary objective is to strengthen security around the VOA process while maintaining the policy, which has been instrumental in promoting tourism, trade, and investment in Nigeria.

We believe that with collaboration and dialogue, we can address the security issues identified and achieve a secured and efficient VOA process that benefits all parties involved,”** she added.

PEBEC, known for driving reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s business environment, reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the country remains an attractive destination for investors and tourists.

The council has been at the forefront of simplifying business procedures and reducing bottlenecks, making it easier for businesses to thrive in Nigeria.

The Minister of Interior had announced plans to replace the VOA policy with a system of landing and exit cards, which visitors would be required to pre-fill before arriving in or departing from Nigeria.

However, PEBEC’s intervention suggests that a more collaborative approach is being considered to balance security and investor-friendly policies.

Miss Africa 2025 returns with 19 contestants from across Africa, celebrating unity, talent, and the rich diversity of African heritage

The highly anticipated Miss Africa pageant is set to make a grand return on 20 April, featuring 19 talented contestants from across the continent.

Also read: 12-Year-Old Jessica Mazoje crowned tourism Queen at little Mr and Miss Africa-Nigeria 2024 pageant

This year’s edition promises a spectacular celebration of African unity, culture, and diversity, with Nigeria’s Sopuruchi Agoauwuike among those vying for the prestigious crown.

Brand Manager of Miss Africa Production, Mr Femi Oyelade, announced the details in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

He emphasised that the contestants represent a rich tapestry of African heritage, from Algeria to Zimbabwe.

“These exceptional ambassadors reflect the essence of African excellence, celebrating a rich blend of cultures, traditions, and values,” Oyelade said.

The Contestants

The lineup includes:
– **Maria Boudoduay** (Algeria)
– **Emiliana Antonio** (Angola)
– **Lindie Motswaeng** (Botswana)
– **Theresa Ange** (Cameroon)
– **Tity Muzadi** (Congo)
– **Nafkot Sintayehu** (Ethiopia)
– **Sarah Akinyi** (Kenya)
– **Oumou Magassy** (Mali)
– **Khadijiatou Ndiaye** (Mauritania)
– **Chaimaa Hejam** (Morocco)
– **Silvia Ernesto Linha** (Mozambique)
– **Delsie Somaes** (Namibia)
– **Mariam Abdou** (Niger)
– **Sopuruchi Agoauwuike** (Nigeria)
– **Ashimwe Michelle** (Rwanda)
– **Aisha Osman Ikow** (Somalia)
– **Kamogelo Matinketsa** (South Africa)
– **Wiza Nawila** (Zambia)
– **Kundai Benhura** (Zimbabwe)

Beyond Beauty

Oyelade highlighted that the contestants were selected through a rigorous process evaluating not only their physical beauty but also their intellectual prowess, leadership qualities, and commitment to social causes.

Throughout the pageant, participants will engage in challenges, workshops, and community outreach programmes to showcase their talents and advocacy skills.

“This year’s event will be a memorable celebration of African unity, featuring stunning performances, special guest appearances, and a vibrant display of African fashion,” Oyelade added.

Join the Celebration

The organisers invite audiences across the continent to follow the journey of these remarkable women, cheer for their favourite contestants, and celebrate the richness of African heritage.

For updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content, follow **Miss Africa Production** on social media @missafricaproduction.