May 6, (THEWILL)- The Lagos State Government has revealed the plan to work with tourism stakeholders in Nigeria, to introduce International best practices in the Hospitality Industry, aiming to provide exceptional travellers’ experience while maintaining top-tier service standards through a shared dedication to excellence and innovation in the ever-evolving realm of tourism and hospitality.
The Commissioner For Tourism, Arts And Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, disclosed this at the Standardisation Conference For Tourism And Related Services, organised by the Standards Organisation Of Nigeria (SON), in Lagos State, on Friday.
The event “Implementing International Best Practices in the Hospitality Industry”, was a collaboration between the Lagos State Government and The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), dedicated to fostering global best practices for effective implementation.
The Lagos State Commissioner For Tourism, Arts And Culture, in her remark expressed confidence in the collective insights and expertise of the government and the stakeholders, which she said would pave the way for transformative change within our Industry.
Benson-Awoyinka reiterated the Lagos state government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote standardisation and excellence in tourism and hospitality-related services.
She hinted that standardisation is intrinsic in ensuring high quality, consistency and competitiveness within the tourism and hospitality sector.
According to her, such development determines a feature by which the industry can thrive on a global stage, adding the huge step offers unparalleled experiences to travellers while upholding the highest standards of service delivery.
She observed that the stakeholders’ presence at the meeting was a reflection of a collective commitment to excellence and innovation in the dynamic world of tourism and hospitality.
She added that the theme of the conference is especially pertinent as we navigate through an era of rapid change and evolving customer expectations, embracing international best practices not only elevates our offerings.
She assured that the move would strengthen the nation’s existing position as a premier destination for travellers seeking unforgettable experiences and adventures.
While acknowledging the challenges in meeting International standards, she urged the stakeholders to recognise the immense opportunities that standardisation brings for growth, innovation and sustainable development within our industry.
“It is in line with this standardisation that the Ministry is currently digitising its Hotel Licensing processes and other regulatory activities of the Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture.
“It is my belief that together, we will harness the potential in the hospitality industry to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and showcase the rich cultural heritage of our nation.
“As we all know true progress can only be achieved through collaborative efforts, therefore, encourage all stakeholders, government agencies, industry players, academia and international bodies to work hand in hand towards implementing international best practices and setting new benchmarks of success,” she said.
Also, she encouraged the experts to actively participate, engage in constructive dialogue, and commit to the shared vision to win the tourism industry as one through standardisation and international best practices.
“Together, we can chart a course towards a brighter and more prosperous future”, she noted.
She applauded organisers, sponsors, partners and participants for their dedication and support in making this conference a reality, she advised them to adopt public and private collaboration, innovation, and excellence with enthusiasm and determination in growing the economy.
Explaining further, she envisaged that the deliberations, meaningful networking opportunities, and tangible outcomes will not only benefit individual organisations however, will immensely contribute to the overall growth and sustainability of the tourism and hospitality ecosystem.
The event witnessed presentations from different brands such as The GB Foods, Nigeria Association of Cakes and Sugar Crafts and Conformity Assessment Activities in the Hospitality Sector, led by Chidinma Ewuzie – CA Implem. Desk Officer SON, Certification of Hospitality Establishments – Industry Experience by Ebi Semodei (GM, Ogeyi’s Hotel Port Harcourt and former QA Mgr. Hilton Hotels, Abuja) and more.
The attendees were the President of FTAN, Nkeruwem Onung, Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, Folorunsho Coker, Former President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies, Mrs Susan Akporiaye.
About the Author
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
