...Association Says Quality Manpower is Key to Repositioning Nigeria as a Preferred Destination
The Nigerian Association of Tour Operators, NATOP, has reaffirmed its commitment to work closely with the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, NIHOTOURS, to bridge the gap between industry practice and professional training in Nigeria’s tourism sector.
Speaking at the NIHOTOURS Stakeholders Meeting in Abuja, Wednesday, NATOP President, mrs Bolaji Mustapha said the Institute has over the years distinguished itself as a vital pillar in the training, development, and now regulation of hospitality and tourism professionals in the country.
“As stakeholders in the same industry, NATOP recognizes that the strength of tourism operations is only as good as the quality of manpower that drives it,” the President stated. “It is for this reason that we hold NIHOTOURS’ work in high esteem and consider this gathering not merely ceremonial, but a strategic opportunity to deepen collaboration between our associations.”
He noted that Nigeria’s tourism sector stands at a defining moment, with growing interest in domestic tourism, increased attention to cultural heritage, and the national drive to diversify the economy away from oil.
“In this moment, the synergy between tour operators and tourism training institutions such as NIHOTOURS has never been more critical,” he added. “NATOP remains committed to working hand in hand with NIHOTOURS to ensure that the next generation of tourism practitioners is well equipped to compete on the global stage.”
On behalf of the entire membership of NATOP, the President congratulated NIHOTOURS for convening the stakeholders meeting and assured the Institute of NATOP’s continued support and partnership.
“We are united in the collective task of repositioning Nigeria as a preferred tourism destination in Africa and beyond,” Mustapha concluded.
