Nigeria’s travel, tourism and hospitality industry is attracting investments from far and wide. In fact, the projections for the industry by stakeholders are quite positive. In line with this, efforts should be geared towards regulating the industry so that a very productive sector would emerge. This would no doubt attract the much-needed investment into the Nigerian economy. This is not the task of government alone but also that of the stakeholder. Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 Hotel Booking Portal writes about some of the government and non-government bodies that could be useful to move Nigeria’s tourism industry to the next level.
Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC)
The NTDC is the most important regulatory body in Nigeria. The board plays a key role in policy formulation for the tourism industry as well as stakeholders. It is more like a compass that determines the direction of the sector. The major responsibility of this government agency is to promote and develop tourism. Their activities have repositioned the industry to a large extent and this has encouraged international travellers to select Nigeria as their choice destination. It was established in 1982 and it is a parastatal under the Ministry of Tourism.
National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA)
NANTA came into existence in 1973. Arguably one of the most vibrant travel agencies inNigeria. As a travel agent or travel business owner, being a member of NANTA is paramount. It would give your business more leverage. Their members cut across the 36 states of the federation. It is an important travel body.
National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM)
The NCMM controls all museums and monuments in Nigeria. Presently, the commission is in charge of 45 museums. They also ensure that Nigeria’s monuments are duly preserved by listing them. The commission in 2014 named 100 monuments to celebrate Nigeria’s centenary.
Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN)
Unlike the NTDC which is a government agency, the FTAN is an association in the private sector for tourism professionals. Its responsibility is to represent and present a unified opinion on issues regarding tourism in the private sector as well as promote travel and tourism in Nigeria. It was established in 1997.
Hospitality and Tourism Management Association of Nigeria (HATMAN)
With over 3,000 members across Nigeria, HATMAN is an all-in-one association. Their members include restaurants, bars, hotels and catering institutions amongst others.
