FTAN demands broader input in Nigeria’s tourism policy review, urging inclusiveness before legislation to ensure robust sector growth

FTAN has called for wider stakeholder contributions to the ongoing review of Nigeria’s National Policy on Tourism and Hospitality.

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Speaking at the Tourism and Hospitality Stakeholders’ validation of the 2024 Draft Policy in Lagos, the National President of FTAN, Mr Nkereuwem Onung, urged for absolute inclusiveness before the policy moves to the legislative stage.

He noted that some associations within FTAN were not carried along in the process.

Onung stressed that inclusiveness would enrich the policy with diverse perspectives and expertise. “It is a wise decision to review the policy because the old one is outdated.

But we should be given the privilege to make input at FTAN, the umbrella body of tourism and hospitality practitioners in Nigeria,” he said, while acknowledging the efforts of former Minister of Tourism, Mrs Lola Ade-John.

FTAN leaders reinforced this call. Alhaji Muzali Dantata, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, emphasized collaboration with all states. Mr Ikechi Uko suggested distributing the draft policy to all associations within the sector, granting two weeks for feedback, followed by academic input for refinement. “Whatever is done today must be owned by the industry to make the policy work,” Uko said.

Mr Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director-General of the Ekiti State Tourism Bureau, highlighted the urgent need for a strong legal framework to sustain the industry.

Responding, Mrs Ngozi Ngoka, Thematic Lead at the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), noted that over 215 people had already been engaged during the four-year review process, but assured stakeholders that further consultations would take place.

Former Minister Lola Ade-John, who initiated the review, said the draft policy was *“meticulously crafted”* with inputs from government, private sector, and international experts.

She explained that it reflects global best practices and outlines strategies for infrastructure improvement, sustainable tourism, visitor safety, and enhanced experiences.

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With the validation exercise underway, stakeholders now expect the Federal Government to consider the expanded input and deliver a policy framework capable of unlocking Nigeria’s tourism potential.