By Innocent Orok
The Director General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism
(NIHOTOUR), Aare (Dr) Abisoye Fagade, FIMC, has met with the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Mrs Kemi Nanna Nandep to seek a strategic collaboration aimed at enforcing industry standards within the tourism, hospitality, and travel sectors.
This partnership is crucial in
addressing the unchecked influx of expatriates into Nigeria’s hospitality industry and ensuring fair labour practices for Nigerian professionals.
According to the statement
Nigeria has witnessed a significant influx of expatriates, including individuals from war-torn
countries and smaller African nations, who dominate key positions in hospitality businesses.
“These expatriates often earn in foreign currencies, particularly in dollars, while their Nigerian counterparts—despite having equal or even higher qualifications—are paid significantly lower salaries in Naira. This disparity persists partly due to the lack of regulatory oversight in the
issuance of work permits within the industry.Currently, expatriates seeking employment in Nigeria’s hospitality sector obtain work visas through the NIS under the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC).
However, there is no requirement for them to obtain NIHOTOUR certification, which is essential for ensuring that they meet industry-specific competency standards”, the statement said.
NIHOTOUR has however demands and calls for the following actions to be taken:
•Inclusion of NIHOTOUR Certification in Work Visa Requirements: NIHOTOUR is calling for the immediate inclusion of its certification as a mandatory requirement
for hospitality, travel, and tourism businesses when processing work visas for expatriates. This will
ensure that only qualified professionals who meet Nigeria’s industry standards are granted permits
to work in the sector.
•Joint Committee for CERPAC Review: NIHOTOUR seeks to establish a joint committee with the NIS to conduct a comprehensive review
of all CERPAC work permits issued to expatriates working in Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry. The committee will ensure that all foreign professionals operating in the sector possess both NIHOTOUR certification and the required CERPAC permit.
•Training of Immigration Officers for Enhanced Airport Experience: As Nigeria’s first point of contact for visitors and returning citizens, immigration officers play a
crucial role in shaping the country’s image. NIHOTOUR is proposing a structured training program for immigration officers at airports to enhance their professional conduct and improve the overall airport experience. This initiative aims to eliminate alleged cases of extortion, foster a welcoming environment for travelers, and create an additional revenue stream for both NIHOTOUR and the
NIS.
It further stated that a commitment to industry excellence in collaboration
between NIHOTOUR and the NIS will not only enhance Nigeria’s tourism and
hospitality standards, but also protect the interests of Nigerian professionals. By ensuring that expatriates meet the same industry requirements as local workers, the initiative promotes
fairness, professionalism, and the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s tourism sector.
“NIHOTOUR remains committed to elevating the country’s tourism and hospitality industry to
international standards and will continue to engage key stakeholders in achieving this vision”.
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