NIHOTOUR Establishes Disciplinary Tribunal to Regulate Tourism Industry

The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has set up a Hospitality, Travel, and Tourism Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal to sanction tourism offenders. This move aims to promote professionalism and accountability in the industry.

Key Highlights

• Tribunal’s Objective: The tribunal will investigate and adjudicate cases involving professional misconduct, licensing infractions, and ethical violations by individuals and institutions operating in the sector.
• Leadership: Retired Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory, Justice Ishaq Bello, has been appointed chairman of the tribunal.
• Industry Impact: The tribunal is expected to raise the bar of service delivery and uphold the integrity of the industry, positioning Nigeria to meet global expectations.
• Collaboration: The tribunal will work with stakeholders across both public and private sectors to ensure compliance with industry standards.

Background

• Regulatory Framework: NIHOTOUR’s establishment of the tribunal is part of its broader transformation agenda to become a full regulatory authority for the industry.
• Ministerial Support: The Minister of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has emphasized the importance of standards in the industry while also calling for a more inclusive and transparent approach.

Implications

• Professionalism: The tribunal will promote professionalism and accountability in the tourism industry.
• Industry Growth: By ensuring compliance with industry standards, the tribunal will contribute to the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s tourism sector.
• Stakeholder Engagement: The tribunal’s work will involve collaboration with stakeholders to raise industry standards and address concerns.