Radio Parley: Cross-Border Trade, Dollar-Only Sales, Visa Racketeering, and Flight Disruptions in Focus*
On Thursday, July 17, 2025, Mr. Yinka Folami, President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), featured as a special guest on Creative Naija, a program aired on Mainland FM 98.3. Speaking with clarity and conviction, Folami delved into the pressing issues affecting Nigeria’s travel trade, providing critical insights on behalf of the association.
Addressing the menace of cross-border trading, Folami described it as the “greatest infidelity and a sin against the local market.” He condemned the actions of global merchants who bypass licensed Nigerian agents to sell travel products directly to consumers, resulting in capital flight, job losses, and diminished market control. Commending British Airways for updating its systems to prioritize Point of Commencement (POC), he noted that such efforts effectively curb cross-border abuse.
Folami also took a firm stance against the practice of dollar-only ticket sales by some foreign airlines, describing it as “a direct affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty.” He explained that the policy excludes over 70% of licensed Nigerian agents and undermines the Naira. With improvements in market liquidity, the resolution of remittance issues, FX stabilization, and enhanced transparency by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), he stressed that the rationale for USD-only ticketing is no longer valid. His clear call to airlines: “At least accommodate the Naira.” He praised the CBN’s ongoing reforms and emphasized NANTA’s commitment to support the government in fostering economic progress.
On the issue of visa racketeering, Folami urged Nigerians to avoid individuals who promise guaranteed visas, clarifying that visa issuance is not within the mandate of travel professionals. He emphasized that NANTA members are bound by ethical standards and are only authorized to provide visa advisory services. He welcomed investigations by anti-corruption agencies into visa fraud, stating that such efforts are necessary to protect Nigeria’s national image. To further strengthen public trust, NANTA has introduced a member verification portal on its website, issued unique membership ID cards, restructured its constitution, and is transforming its training programs into a full-fledged NANTA Training Institute.
Regarding the frequent cancellations and delays of domestic flights, Folami acknowledged the shared responsibility among all stakeholders—government, airlines, travel agents, and passengers. He emphasized that no airline benefits from disruptions, as they damage both reputation and operational integrity.
Concluding the session, Folami reaffirmed NANTA’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, collaboration, and capacity building. He highlighted ongoing initiatives such as sustained engagement with government agencies, the rollout of accredited training programs through the forthcoming NANTA Training Institute, and the implementation of a reviewed constitution aimed at strengthening the association’s standards and membership growth.
“Africa is the future, and Nigeria will drive it,” he boldly declared.
