The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) has cautioned its member – associations not to take part in the ongoing Competency-based Interview (CBI) and Registration Exercise being conducted by the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), noting that the exercise is not in conformity with the law and directive of the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, a lawyer.

This was contained in a letter of advisory by the Federation, which is the umbrella body for all tourism operators and associations in the private sector, to all it member – associations, following an earlier letter on the subject by NIHOTOUR’s Director General, Dr Abisoye Fagade, to some presidents of the Federation’s member – associations, requesting its to be part of the exercise, which commenced today, May 5, 2026, through a letter dated April 30, 2026 and entitled: Letter of award of pro-bono registration by the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism for certification and licencing.

However, in the advisory letter dated May 5, 2026, entitled: FTAN advisory on NIHOTOUR Competency-based Interview and Registration, signed by the National President of FTAN, Dr Aliyu Ajayi Badaki, the Federation among others stated grounds of its objection to the exercise.

Its letter reads in part: ‘‘You will recall that the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy has directed NIHOTOUR to engage relevant stakeholders, particularly the organized private sector, in resolving the numerous concerns and controversies surrounding the provisions and implementation of its enabling law.

“It is, therefore, a matter of concern that NIHOTOUR has proceeded to initiate and implement this registration and certification process without concluding the required stakeholder engagement and consensus-building process as mandated by the Ministry.

‘‘In view of the foregoing, and in the collective interest of protecting the integrity, rights, and unified position of the private sector, all member associations under FTAN are hereby strongly advised not to participate in, or be part of, the ongoing NIHOTOUR registration, certification, and Competency-based Interview (CBI) exercise’’
FTAN, therefore, gave conditions on which its member- associations can partake in the exercise, as it stated:

‘‘Until: 1. All outstanding issues and controversies surrounding the law are fully addressed; and 2. NIHOTOUR complies with the Ministry’s directive to meaningfully engage stakeholders and reach a mutually agreed framework for implementation.’’

Badaki disclosed the Federation readiness and commitment to partner with the government and its agencies in all matters related to the development and promotion of tourism.

This is as he stated: ‘‘FTAN remains fully committed to constructive dialogue and collaboration with government institutions in the overall interest of developing a sustainable and globally competitive tourism industry.

‘‘However, such collaboration must be anchored on inclusiveness, clarity of roles, and respect for the contributions of the organised private sector. We count on your understanding, cooperation, and solidarity in ensuring adherence to this directive. Please accept the assurances of our highest regards.’’