August 25, (THEWILL) – The umbrella body of private sector operators in the industry, the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), has expressed worry over what it termed “potential disruptions to cohesion and growth” perpetrated by public sector regulatory agencies of government in managing affairs of the sector.
Citing instances of the ‘troubling’ methods deployed by the policymakers in handling the Tourism Policy Review project, and the World Tourism Day (WTD)programme, the group stated that “unity and collaboration are essential for advancing Nigeria’s tourism industry.”
A statement, released by the country’s biggest private sector tourism operators’ body, and signed by its President, Mr Nkereuwem Onung, at the weekend, further urged the Federal Ministry of Tourism to “prioritise unity and inclusivity to safeguard the sector’s future.”
On the Tourism Policy Review, FTAN decried “the troubling developments involving the imposition of external entities, such as the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), onto the private sector” by the Federal Ministry of Tourism in executing the project.
According to FTAN, the decision by the Ministry of Tourism ‘shift towards involving external groups instead of collaborating with established industry bodies undermines the collaborative spirit essential for the sector’s success.’
Also citing the forthcoming WTD celebration, the FTAN president, Onung pointed out that the recent designation of Akwa Ibom as the host state for World Tourism Day (WTD), has already sparked additional concerns due to lack of consultation and inclusivity.
This is just as he noted that while hosting the WTD is a commendable initiative, ‘the lack of clear and actionable planning threatens to diminish the event’s impact and benefits.’
Also, the FTAN President, while citing the upcoming 2024 World Travel Market (WTM), in London, emphasised the ‘critical need for unity,’ as according to him, the global trade exhibition ‘presents a crucial opportunity for Nigerian tourism operators to forge business relationships, engage with international peers and promote Nigeria’s diverse attractions.’
Continuing, Onung stated that ‘effective organisation and preparation are vital in order to maximise the potential of such high-profile events,’ as he called on the Ministry of Tourism and its agencies to ‘adopt a more inclusive and transparent approach.’
Mr Onung further posited that from the foregoing it has now become imperative that the Ministry of Tourism supports FTAN’s leadership and ‘aligns efforts through established industry channels to ensure a cohesive approach.’
“Instead of unilaterally imposing decisions, the Ministry should engage with FTAN and other stakeholders to build a unified strategy that supports and enhances Nigeria’s tourism sector.
“Unity and collaboration are essential for advancing Nigeria’s tourism industry.
“By respecting the roles of established industry bodies and fostering a more inclusive approach, Nigeria can improve its global tourism profile and fully leverage its diverse attractions”, the FTAN president stressed.
He, however, assured that FTAN ‘remains committed to working collaboratively with the Ministry of Tourism to ensure that Nigeria’s tourism sector thrives on the global stage.’
Onung, therefore, urged the tourism ministry to recalibrate its approach by ’embracing FTAN’s leadership, actively participating in international events like WTM, and ensuring comprehensive preparation for events like WTD to build a stronger and more prosperous industry.’
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
