Hoteliers Hail Suspension of NIHOTOUR Registration Exercise
The Nigeria Hotel Association (NHA) has applauded the Federal Government’s decision to suspend the hotel personnel registration exercise earlier introduced by the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR).
The suspension, ordered by the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Economy on August 29, 2025, followed protests and consultations with key stakeholders across the hospitality sector.
Addressing journalists at the NUJ Secretariat in Bauchi, the NHA National President, His Highness Eze Dr. Patrick C. Anyanwu, described the move as a “huge relief” for hotel operators.
He explained that the mandate for hotel registration rests with the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), not NIHOTOUR.
“The suspension is a huge relief and a step toward solving the confusion and pressure this matter has caused hotel owners nationwide,” Anyanwu said, urging members to ignore any attempts to collect fees under the suspended directive.
He credited the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), led by Alhaji Dr. Badaki Aliyu, for playing a central role in engaging with the Minister and ensuring hoteliers’ voices were heard.
While reaffirming the NHA’s support for training and certification initiatives, Anyanwu stressed that such efforts must be transparent and developed in full consultation with stakeholders.
The association president also seized the moment to draw attention to broader industry grievances, particularly multiple taxation, which he said continues to burden operators.
“Up till today, our members are suffering multiple taxations. Government should do something about it. My members are bitterly complaining,” he added.
Anyanwu further praised the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tourism for pledging legislative backing to protect hoteliers’ rights and to foster a more supportive environment for the sector.
He emphasized that the NHA must be fully represented at all levels — national, state, and local — in future policy decisions affecting the industry to prevent further confusion.
Reiterating the association’s commitment, Anyanwu said the NHA would continue collaborating with the Federal Government, the National Assembly, NTDA, FTAN, and other stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism landscape.
The Sun
