Why I accepted to head National Committee on Industry Professional Bodies Recognition and Governance, by Prof. Babalola

Professor Wasiu A. Babalola is a distinguished academic, legal practitioner, hospitality and tourism professional, and corporate governance expert whose career spans academia, law, hospitality, tourism, finance, forensic accounting and audit, taxation and culinary arts, to mention but few. His multi-disciplinary expertise reflects a rare combination of scholarship, industry leadership, and professional excellence. A Professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management, he also holds qualifications in Law, Accounting, Business Management, Human Resources and Hospitality Management; making him one of the few professionals to successfully bridge academia with practice across multiple disciplines.

Prior to his current appointment, he serves as the Chairperson of the National Technical / Mirror Committee on Tourism and Related Services, while also providing strategic leadership to several national and international professional organizations within the hospitality and tourism sector.
Beyond the classroom and boardroom, Professor Babalola is an accomplished hospitality executive, legal practitioner, chartered accountant, certified executive chef, and service excellence advocate. His work continues to influence policy development, professional standards, governance reforms, and capacity building within Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, integrity, and lifelong learning, Professor Babalola remains dedicated to mentoring future professionals and advancing global best practices across every field in which he serves.
Herein below, Professor Babalola shares his experiences about the industry and his recent appointment to serve as Chairman of the National Committee on Industry Professional Bodies Recognition and Governance (NCIPBRG):

Prof., you have numerous academic, professional, and industry commitments. What convinced you to accept the responsibility of chairing this Committee, and what does this appointment mean to you personally?
Thank you for the question. This appointment is not a personal achievement; rather, it is a call to national service at a defining moment in the evolution of our industry. It presents a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development of a professional, ethical, and globally competitive hospitality and tourism sector. Throughout my career, I have been privileged to serve in academia, industry, and professional institutions. Those experiences have given me a broad appreciation of the challenges facing our hospitality and tourism sector and the opportunities that lie ahead.
For decades, our industry has witnessed tremendous growth, yet challenges relating to the recognition of professional bodies, overlapping mandates, fragmented standards, and governance frameworks have continued to affect its development. Addressing these issues requires courage, collaboration, and a shared vision that places the collective interests of the industry above individual or institutional considerations. This Committee presents a rare opportunity to contribute to building a stronger governance framework for the industry. It is not about any individual or organisation; it is about creating a professional ecosystem that promotes collaboration, accountability, ethical practice, and global competitiveness.

Personally, I regard this appointment as a responsibility to give back to an industry that has shaped my professional journey. I accepted because I believe that when one has the experience and the opportunity to contribute to national development, one should not shy away from that responsibility.Many stakeholders are still unclear about the Committee’s mandate.

Could you explain its objectives and what practical outcomes the industry should expect at the end of your assignment?
The Committee’s mandate is both strategic and forward-looking. Our responsibility is to examine the framework for the recognition and governance of professional bodies within Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry. We are expected to identify existing gaps, encourage collaboration among stakeholders, and recommend policies that strengthen professionalism, accountability, and institutional effectiveness.
We are not being constituted to create division or diminish the role of any existing professional bodies. On the contrary, our objective is to develop a framework that recognises the valuable contributions of professional institutions while encouraging coordination, adherence to standards, and alignment with national development goals.
At the conclusion of our work, stakeholders should expect practical recommendations that will enhance professional recognition, improve governance, reduce unnecessary overlaps, strengthen industry standards, and create greater confidence for practitioners, employers,
investors, and the public. Ultimately, we want to contribute to an industry that is better organised, more professional, and more competitive both nationally and internationally.

Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry has several professional associations with different interests and sometimes competing perspectives. How do you intend to ensure fairness and avoid favouring any particular organisation?
Fairness begins with the recognition that every legitimate stakeholder has something valuable to contribute. As Chairman, I have no personal agenda other than ensuring that the Committee delivers recommendations that serve the collective interests of the industry.
Every member of the Committee was appointed because of their expertise and experience, and I expect every viewpoint to receive equal consideration.
Our deliberations will be guided by evidence, objectivity, transparency, and consensus rather than institutional interests or personal preferences. Where differences of opinion arise, and they inevitably will, we shall encourage constructive dialogue and seek solutions that advance the common good.
I have also encouraged every Committee member to faithfully represent the legitimate interests of the professional constituency they know best. It is only when all perspectives are openly presented and critically examined that we can produce recommendations that genuinely reflect the aspirations of the wider industry. Our loyalty is not to any single organisation; our loyalty is to the sustainable growth and professional development of Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sector.

Can stakeholders, including professional bodies, hotel operators, travel professionals, academia, and investors, expect to be consulted before the Committee submits its report to NIHOTOUR?

Absolutely. Stakeholder engagement is fundamental to the success and credibility of this assignment. A Committee of this nature cannot produce meaningful recommendations by relying solely on internal deliberations. The industry is diverse, and every major stakeholder group possesses unique experiences and perspectives that deserve to be heard.
We intend to engage widely with existing professional bodies, hotel owners and operators, travel professionals, tourism practitioners, academic institutions, training providers, investors, regulatory agencies, labour representatives, and other relevant stakeholders.
Our objective is to ensure that the Committee’s recommendations are informed by broad consultation, practical realities, and evidence-based analysis. We want stakeholders to see themselves reflected in the final report, not because every individual view will necessarily be adopted, but because every legitimate voice will have been given a fair opportunity to contribute. At the end of this process, we hope to deliver recommendations that are not only technically sound but also enjoy broad industry support, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful implementation and long-term impact.

How will your recommendations improve professionalism while also creating an enabling environment that attracts investment and promotes sustainable growth in the hospitality and tourism industry?
Professionalism and investment are inseparable. Investors are naturally attracted to industries that demonstrate clear standards, credible institutions, ethical practices, and regulatory certainty. Where professional standards are weak or fragmented, investor confidence is diminished. Our objective is to recommend a governance framework that promotes competence, accountability, ethical conduct, and continuous professional development across the industry. At the same time, we recognise that regulation should enable growth rather than create unnecessary barriers.
We therefore intend to recommend measures that strengthen professional recognition while encouraging collaboration, transparency, and predictability. Such an environment benefits everyone. Professionals gain greater recognition and opportunities for career development, businesses operate within clearer governance structures, consumers receive better quality services, and investors have greater confidence in the stability and credibility of the industry. Ultimately, a professionally regulated industry is not only more respected but also more attractive to domestic and international investment. That is one of the outcomes we hope to support through our recommendations.

One of the long-standing challenges in the industry is the proliferation of professional bodies and overlapping areas of practice. Will the Committee be looking at mechanisms for recognition, collaboration, and harmonisation?
Yes, that is one of the issues that naturally falls within the broader context of our assignment. The existence of multiple professional bodies is not, in itself, a problem. In many mature economies, different professional associations coexist successfully because their roles are clearly defined and there are established mechanisms for cooperation and mutual respect.
Our responsibility is not to determine which organisations should exist or to diminish the legitimate role of any professional body. Rather, we intend to examine how recognition, collaboration, coordination, and good governance can be strengthened in a manner that benefits the entire industry. Where there are overlaps, our approach will be to understand the underlying causes, engage all affected stakeholders, and explore practical solutions that encourage synergy rather than unnecessary competition. We believe that professional diversity should become a source of strength instead of division. If we succeed in promoting greater collaboration and clearer governance, the entire industry will be stronger for it.

• As Chairman of this important national committee, what values and leadership philosophy will guide your deliberations and decision-making throughout the assignment?
  My leadership philosophy shall be founded on four principles: integrity, inclusiveness, objectivity, and service. Integrity requires that our decisions be guided solely by what is in the best interest of the industry. Inclusiveness means ensuring that every stakeholder has a
  fair opportunity to be heard, regardless of the size or influence of the organisation they represent. Objectivity demands that our recommendations be evidence-based, carefully researched, and informed by both national realities and international best practices. Finally, service reminds us that this Committee exists to serve the industry and the nation, not individual interests.
  I also believe strongly in consensus-building. While consensus may not always mean unanimity, it requires genuine dialogue, mutual respect, and a willingness to seek common
  ground. As Chairman, my responsibility is to facilitate that process in a manner that
  encourages trust, openness, and constructive engagement. I have every confidence in the distinguished members of this Committee, whose collective expertise and experience will enrich our deliberations and strengthen the quality of our recommendations.
• Finally, what message would you like to send to hospitality and tourism professionals, operators, regulators, and the general public regarding the work of this Committee and the future of the industry?
  My message is one of optimism, collaboration, and shared responsibility. The hospitality and tourism industry is one of Nigeria’s greatest opportunities for economic diversification, employment creation, cultural promotion, and sustainable national development. To realise that potential, we must build institutions that are credible, inclusive, and capable of supporting long-term growth.
  I therefore encourage all stakeholders to view this Committee not as an exercise in regulation alone, but as an opportunity to shape the future of our industry together. We welcome constructive ideas, informed contributions, and active participation throughout this
  process. I also want to assure the industry that this Committee will approach its assignment with independence, fairness, and professionalism. We are committed to listening before recommending, consulting before concluding, and building consensus wherever possible.
  At the end of our assignment, our success will not be measured simply by the report we submit to the Country via NIHOTOUR, rather, it will be measured by whether our recommendations help create a more united, professionally respected, investor-friendly, and globally competitive hospitality and tourism industry.
  This is a defining moment for our profession. I invite every stakeholder to join us in building an industry that future generations of Nigerians will be proud to inherit. Together, we can strengthen not only our institutions but also Nigeria’s reputation as a leading hospitality and tourism destination in Africa and beyond.

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As a follow up to its recently concluded stakeholder conference and in a landmark step towards strengthening professionalism, institutional governance, and stakeholder collaboration within Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry, the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has inaugurated the National Committee on Industry Professional Bodies Recognition and Governance (NCIPBRG).
The Committee, inaugurated at the Institute’s headquarters in Abuja by the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of NIHOTOUR, Aare Abisoye Fagade, has been mandated to develop a national framework for the recognition, collaboration, and governance of professional bodies operating within Nigeria’s hospitality, tourism, travel, and allied sectors.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Fagade described the committee as a strategic intervention designed to strengthen institutional credibility, promote ethical standards, and foster greater cooperation among professional bodies within the industry. He noted that while Nigeria is blessed with numerous professional associations serving different segments of the industry, there is an urgent need for a coherent governance framework that encourages professionalism, accountability, mutual recognition, and adherence to globally accepted standards.
“The future of every profession depends not only on the competence of its practitioners but also on the strength of the institutions that represent them. This Committee has been entrusted with the responsibility of laying the foundation for a transparent, credible and nationally accepted framework that will guide the recognition and governance of professional bodies within our industry,” Fagade stated.
The Director General explained that the Committee’s assignment aligns with the statutory mandate of NIHOTOUR under the NIHOTOUR Establishment Act, 2022, particularly its responsibility to regulate standards, promote professional development, and strengthen institutional capacity within Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism ecosystem.
Within the next three months, the committee would be expected to:

• Develop objective criteria for the recognition of professional bodies within the industry.
• Recommend governance standards and accountability frameworks for recognised professional associations.* Propose ethical principles and professional practice guidelines.
• Recommend frameworks for collaboration between professional bodies and relevant government institutions.
• Identify areas of overlap and recommend mechanisms for improved coordination, cooperation, and specialisation.
• Promote institutional harmony while preserving the uniqueness and legitimate roles of professional organisations.
• Recommend strategies for strengthening professionalism, investor confidence, and international competitiveness within the sector.

Fagade emphasized that the initiative is not intended to restrict legitimate professional organizations but rather to establish clear standards that encourage excellence, transparency, and public confidence.
Addressing members of the Committee, he charged them to approach their assignment with objectivity, inclusiveness, and patriotism.
“You have been selected because of your experience, integrity and commitment to the industry. Your recommendations must be practical, inclusive, legally sound and capable of strengthening institutions that will outlive individuals. This is an opportunity to shape the future governance architecture of Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism profession.”
Responding on behalf of the Committee, the Chairman, Professor Wasiu A. Babalola, Esq., expressed appreciation to the Management of NIHOTOUR for the confidence reposed in the Committee and pledged the members’ commitment to delivering recommendations that will advance the collective interests of the industry.
Professor Babalola described the assignment as a national responsibility requiring collaboration, objectivity, and extensive stakeholder engagement.
“This Committee represents a unique opportunity for industry stakeholders to collectively shape the future governance framework of our profession. We shall approach this assignment with integrity, fairness and professionalism. Our objective is to produce recommendations that reflect global best practices while responding to Nigeria’s unique industry realities.”
He further assured stakeholders that the Committee would encourage broad consultations across the industry to ensure that its recommendations reflect the aspirations of practitioners, operators, academia, investors, regulators, and professional bodies alike.
“Every legitimate stakeholder has a voice that deserves to be heard. We intend to engage widely because sustainable reforms can only emerge through inclusive dialogue, evidence-based deliberations and consensus-building.”
The Committee comprises distinguished professionals drawn from across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, reflecting a broad spectrum of expertise and regional representation. It includes Dr. Muhammad Nasir Yusuf (North East), Suleiman A. Ahmad (North West), Dr. Elizabeth Babagale and Mr. Aniyikaye Adebayo Samuel (North Central/FCT), Mr. Bashir Abiodun Bello and Ms Ajibola Olubiyi (South West), Mrs. Uloma Egbuona (South East), and Mrs. Faith Essien (South South).
NIHOTOUR said the inauguration of the committee forms part of the broader reform agenda aimed at strengthening professional standards, improving institutional governance, promoting quality assurance, and enhancing the global competitiveness of Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry.
The initiative also aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which recognizes tourism and hospitality as strategic sectors for economic diversification, employment generation, investment promotion, cultural preservation, and sustainable national development.
The Committee is expected to undertake extensive stakeholder consultations, benchmark international best practices, and submit its report to the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of NIHOTOUR within three months for consideration and implementation.

Safari World, an adventure cum ecotourism outfit from Ghana, with facilities such as Safari Homes, Aqua Safari and Safari Valley, is planning to expand into Nigeria. This is part of the group’s efforts to strengthen the region’s tourism potentials and position West African as a tourism hub in African and across the World.

Founded in 2020 by Samuel Afari Dartey, Aqua Safari Valley Eco Resort has grown from a single eco-luxury resort into one of Ghana’s most prestigious tourism brands. Today, the Safari Group operates a diverse tourism ecosystem comprising three major destinations, more than 20 unique experiences, and eight business units: Aqua Safari Eco Resort, Safari Valley Eco Resort, Safari Homes, Safari Eco Park, Safari Nautica, Safari Recreation and Sports, The Ceiba Restaurant, and The Green Shop.

Speaking on Villa Square, a special segment of Cr8tive 9ja—a weekly tourism and culture magazine programme hosted by veteran tourism journalist Frank Meke and Bunmi Bade-Adeniji on Mainland 98.3FM—the Board Chairman of Safari Valley Eco Resort, Ernest Kwadwo Agyarko Gyekye, said the company has been deliberate in building a tourism brand that combines luxury, sustainability, and community development.He explained that the Safari Group operates three flagship properties in Ghana. Safari Homes, located in Accra near the airport, offers secure short-stay accommodation. Aqua Safari Eco Resort, situated on the southern outskirts of Accra, is renowned for its water-based recreational activities, including jet skiing, flying boats, and three private islands within the resort. The third property, Safari Eco Park, spans more than 600 hectares and is home to over 65 species of wildlife.One of the chalets at Safari Valley.

According to Gyekye, the Safari Group established a registered company in Lagos last year, with an office in Lekki Phase 1, as part of its long-term strategy to expand into the Nigerian market and bring the Safari experience closer to Nigerian travellers.“We established a registered company in Lagos because expanding into the Nigerian market has always been part of our strategy. Nigeria has consistently been one of our largest source markets, and we wanted to better understand the market, receive direct feedback from our guests, and strengthen our presence in the country. During one of my visits to Lagos, I had the opportunity to meet the President of NANTA, Yinka Folami,” he said.

He also disclosed that Safari Valley is collaborating with Sterling Bank in Lagos to further strengthen tourism development and promote the Safari experience among Nigerian travellers. “In West Africa, tourism experiences of this scale are rare. When people think of premium safari tourism, they often look to Southern or East Africa. Our vision is to create a world-class destination that places West Africa firmly on the global tourism map,” Gyekye added.

Describing Safari Valley as Ghana’s embodiment of Akwaaba—the Ghanaian expression for hospitality—he noted that the brand remains deeply committed to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences while promoting sustainable tourism.Veteran tourism journalist Frank Meke, who was part of a delegation recently hosted by Safari Valley in Ghana, praised the resort’s exceptional service and professionalism. “My biggest takeaway was the level of professionalism and hospitality I experienced. Despite my extensive travel across different destinations, I have never received such outstanding treatment. Every guest is assigned a personal butler who attends to every need throughout their stay. Beyond the beautiful facilities, it was the warmth and professionalism of the people that truly stood out,” Meke said.

Safari Valley has also emerged as a major contributor to Ghana’s economy. The group employs more than 2,000 people, creating significant employment opportunities and contributing to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Operating across seven rural communities, the company invests heavily in hospitality training for young people, while approximately 80 percent of its agricultural produce and operational supplies are sourced locally.Across its various properties, Safari Valley integrates renewable energy solutions, wastewater recycling systems, biodiversity conservation, low-density developments, and environmental education programmes into its operations.Safari Valley Eco Resort is a four-star forest lodge situated within a sprawling 600-acre valley approximately 65 kilometres from Accra. The resort offers luxury accommodation featuring private pools, fine dining, recreational facilities, conference venues, and event spaces for weddings, honeymoons, birthdays, and corporate gatherings.

The vision behind Safari Valley is to create a destination where nature is preserved and enhanced through science, technology, and sustainable development, allowing wildlife and people to coexist harmoniously in a carefully protected environment.Committed to environmental sustainability and community development, the resort continues to invest in renewable energy infrastructure, including solar power systems, biodigesters, and wastewater recycling plants, with the long-term goal of operating entirely on renewable energy and eliminating dependence on diesel-powered generators.

The Ghanaian Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Mr. Yusif Jajah has called for greater collaboration between Ghana and Nigeria in the area of tourism. He said this while giving a keynote speech at a dinner organized at Safari Valley Resort, Adukrom, for the National Executive Council of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) who was on retreat and familiarization tour to the Safari World, a key leisure tourism, and entertainment company in Ghana.

The Ghanaian tourism minister said Nigerians are the second in tourist arrival to Ghana with the United States of America’s citizens coming first. He said he would like to see this number increase. His Words: “This executive dinner is an important platform for strengthening collaboration between our government, tourism stakeholders, and travel trade partners. Nigeria, our big brothers, remains one of Ghana’s most important tourism markets. According to the 2025 Tourism Report, Ghana received over 1.3 million international visitors in the year 2025, and Nigeria ranks as our second largest source of market.

“In other words, out of that 1.3 million, Nigeria as was said, America is the first international arrival, and our big brother Nigeria is the second largest (over 176,000 international arrivals from Nigeria) .

“We appreciate that, but despite this number, we know it’s more than this number, but at least, it’s an indication about over 176,000 in the year 2025 international arrivals from Nigeria to Ghana. Thank you. We will be more than happy to also hear our Ghanaians who always visit Nigeria, so that we can synergise. This exemplifies a strong people-to-people connection between our countries.”

The NANTA President Dr. Yinka Folami while speaking told the audience that his association, NANTA, which is celebrating its 50^th anniversary, currently has over 4000 members across different regions of Nigeria. He said Ghana and Nigeria have always partnered with each other, and it was a legacy his association intends to continue to build upon. He continued: “One undeniable fact is that Ghana and Nigeria have always been on the positive side of Pan-Africanism. Every journey between Ghana and Nigeria will strengthen Pan-Africa. When I was in school, my geography teacher, a Ghanaian, would always tell us how Africa was partitioned. And that those maps are for administrative convenience. We are one continent, and it will be a sin for any Nigerian or African not to support or market Safari World.”

He also encouraged Ghanaian tourism professionals to promote Nigeria as a destination.

Talking about the founder and chief executive of Safari World Mr. Samuel Afari, the NANTA President described his tourism vision as incredible and abnormal and urged his members to convert the exposure to Safari World facilities to commercial success. His words: “And what you have built is breath-taking. And I want to thank you. So, because we now know, I’m putting this challenge to my colleagues. We must convert this to commercial opportunities for our members.”

The founder and chief executive of Safari World, Mr. Samuel Afari,  described the visit of NANTA as positive development for the regional cooperation among West Africa countries, and also a fulfillment of a 15-year vision of building a partnership between his organization and the Nigerian travel and tourism market.

NANTA also presented certificates of appreciation to both the Ghanaian tourism minister and Mr. Samuel Afari.

Honourable Peter Akpanke, a member of the House of Representatives representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency of Cross River State has been dragged to Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over an alleged unpaid travel debt of more than N19.15m arising from the procurement and reissuance of international and local airline tickets.

The petition, addressed to the ICPC was written by Ohanele Udokanmma, solicitor to Johnson Ugochukwu of Havilah Global Travels Limited, who accused the lawmaker of failing to settle outstanding payments despite repeated demands.

According to the petition, Akpanke engaged the travel agency on January 16, 2026, to procure three Business Class airline tickets to Rome for himself and two associates at a total cost of N24.48m.

The solicitor stated that the tickets were purchased with the agency’s funds at the request of the lawmaker. The petition further alleged that while in Rome on January 24, 2026, Akpanke requested the reissuance of the tickets for two of his companions at an additional cost of N5.79m.

It added that he subsequently requested the reissuance of another passenger’s ticket at a further cost of N1.52m. According to the petitioner, the total value of the international tickets rose to N31m.

The solicitor, however, acknowledged that the lawmaker made part payments, stating that he paid N10m before embarking on the trip and another N4m upon his return from Rome, bringing the total amount paid to N14m.

The petition stated, “The total amount our client received so far from Hon. Peter Akpanke was N14,000,000 with a balance of N17,794,468 from N31,000,000.”

It also alleged that the travel agency later procured an additional local airline ticket for the lawmaker valued at N1.36m, which also remains unpaid. Cumulatively, comprising the outstanding international ticket balance and the local ticket, the petitioner claimed that Akpanke is indebted to the agency in the sum of N19,154,468.

The petition further alleged that all efforts to recover the debt had failed. The solicitor wrote, “Owing to the above facts, Hon. Peter Akpanke is now indebted to our client in the sum of N19,154,468.

“Our client has made repeated demands for the payment of these sums of money due to him as debt from Hon. Peter Akpanke, which he has refused, failed and neglected to pay, with the sole aim of not paying our client his money.”

The solicitor urged the authorities to investigate the matter, saying, “We hereby indulge you to please use your good office to investigate the matter such that justice should be done.”When contacted, Akpanke denied owing Havilah Travels the N19.15m claimed in the petition, insisting that while he had an outstanding balance with the travel agency, the figure being circulated was false.

Speaking on the possible motive behind the petition, the lawmaker said, “If it is not politically motivated, if he has petitioned me to an anti-graft agency, why is he getting across to journalists again today?”

He added, “Number one, it’s a lie. I’m not owing Havilah Travels N19m. I’m having some balances to pay them, but it’s not up to N19m.”

Akpanke argued that having an outstanding business obligation was not a criminal offence, stressing that commercial debts should not automatically be portrayed as wrongdoing.

“To owe somebody is not a crime, my brother. That’s business. If we did business and maybe I’m owing him, a lot of people are owing me too. I’m not saying I’m not owing him. He has petitioned me to an anti-graft agency. Why not allow them do their work now? Why are you engaging journalists again?” he said.

Rejecting suggestions that he had used his political position to avoid payment, the federal lawmaker maintained that he had enjoyed a longstanding business relationship with the travel agency.

“What has political power got to do with buying tickets? Is that the first time he is buying tickets for me? He has bought tickets for me worth over N100m. Maybe I stayed owing him for some time and it made him petition me. That man had no business doing that,” Akpanke said.

He further defended the practice of purchasing airline tickets on credit, saying, “Which law says you cannot buy tickets on credit? I don’t like blackmailing people because tomorrow is pregnant.”

While admitting that he had transacted with Havilah Travels, Akpanke insisted he had been making payments and could provide proof.

“I will not tell you that I didn’t do business with Havilah Travels. I did. And I’m not owing them N19 million. I’ve been paying. I can show you evidence of the last payment I made to him. So what is all that rubbish now? The person who introduced us together has even told him, ‘Don’t worry, I will bear the liabilities.’ So why is he going to journalists?” he said.

He warned that he could also publicise his experience with the agency, adding, “I can equally blackmail them and let Nigerians know that when you do business with them, once you owe them, they begin to petition you to the EFCC and all those places. Has it ever stopped me from paying? I know that I have an obligation to pay him.”

House of Reps member, Akpanke, over alleged debt of N19m

Honourable Peter Akpanke, a member of the House of Representatives representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency of Cross River State, Peter Akpanke, has been dragged to Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over an alleged unpaid travel debt of more than N19.15m arising from the procurement and reissuance of international and local airline tickets.

The petition, addressed to the ICPC was written by Ohanele Udokanmma, solicitor to Johnson Ugochukwu of Havilah Global Travels Limited, who accused the lawmaker of failing to settle outstanding payments despite repeated demands.

According to the petition, Akpanke engaged the travel agency on January 16, 2026, to procure three Business Class airline tickets to Rome for himself and two associates at a total cost of N24.48m.

The solicitor stated that the tickets were purchased with the agency’s funds at the request of the lawmaker. The petition further alleged that while in Rome on January 24, 2026, Akpanke requested the reissuance of the tickets for two of his companions at an additional cost of N5.79m.

It added that he subsequently requested the reissuance of another passenger’s ticket at a further cost of N1.52m. According to the petitioner, the total value of the international tickets rose to N31m.

The solicitor, however, acknowledged that the lawmaker made part payments, stating that he paid N10m before embarking on the trip and another N4m upon his return from Rome, bringing the total amount paid to N14m.

The petition stated, “The total amount our client received so far from Hon. Peter Akpanke was N14,000,000 with a balance of N17,794,468 from N31,000,000.”

It also alleged that the travel agency later procured an additional local airline ticket for the lawmaker valued at N1.36m, which also remains unpaid. Cumulatively, comprising the outstanding international ticket balance and the local ticket, the petitioner claimed that Akpanke is indebted to the agency in the sum of N19,154,468.

The petition further alleged that all efforts to recover the debt had failed. The solicitor wrote, “Owing to the above facts, Hon. Peter Akpanke is now indebted to our client in the sum of N19,154,468.

“Our client has made repeated demands for the payment of these sums of money due to him as debt from Hon. Peter Akpanke, which he has refused, failed and neglected to pay, with the sole aim of not paying our client his money.”

The solicitor urged the authorities to investigate the matter, saying, “We hereby indulge you to please use your good office to investigate the matter such that justice should be done.”When contacted, Akpanke denied owing Havilah Travels the N19.15m claimed in the petition, insisting that while he had an outstanding balance with the travel agency, the figure being circulated was false.

Speaking on the possible motive behind the petition, the lawmaker said, “If it is not politically motivated, if he has petitioned me to an anti-graft agency, why is he getting across to journalists again today?”

He added, “Number one, it’s a lie. I’m not owing Havilah Travels N19m. I’m having some balances to pay them, but it’s not up to N19m.”

Akpanke argued that having an outstanding business obligation was not a criminal offence, stressing that commercial debts should not automatically be portrayed as wrongdoing.

“To owe somebody is not a crime, my brother. That’s business. If we did business and maybe I’m owing him, a lot of people are owing me too. I’m not saying I’m not owing him. He has petitioned me to an anti-graft agency. Why not allow them do their work now? Why are you engaging journalists again?” he said.

Rejecting suggestions that he had used his political position to avoid payment, the federal lawmaker maintained that he had enjoyed a longstanding business relationship with the travel agency.

“What has political power got to do with buying tickets? Is that the first time he is buying tickets for me? He has bought tickets for me worth over N100m. Maybe I stayed owing him for some time and it made him petition me. That man had no business doing that,” Akpanke said.

He further defended the practice of purchasing airline tickets on credit, saying, “Which law says you cannot buy tickets on credit? I don’t like blackmailing people because tomorrow is pregnant.”

While admitting that he had transacted with Havilah Travels, Akpanke insisted he had been making payments and could provide proof.

“I will not tell you that I didn’t do business with Havilah Travels. I did. And I’m not owing them N19 million. I’ve been paying. I can show you evidence of the last payment I made to him. So what is all that rubbish now? The person who introduced us together has even told him, ‘Don’t worry, I will bear the liabilities.’ So why is he going to journalists?” he said.

He warned that he could also publicise his experience with the agency, adding, “I can equally blackmail them and let Nigerians know that when you do business with them, once you owe them, they begin to petition you to the EFCC and all those places. Has it ever stopped me from paying? I know that I have an obligation to pay him.”

 The National 1st Deputy President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), Alhaji Mohammed Mustapha, has expressed satisfaction with the one week executive retreat embarked upon by the National Executive Council of NANTA to Safari World, Ghana, saying it has not only helped in giving the association the opportunity to build regional bonds,  it has also opened them to business opportunities for members. 

Mustapha spoke at Aqua Safari in Ada, Ghana during the one week retreat currently embarked upon by the National Executive Council of the association. He said apart from seeing an international standard leisure property to promote at regional level in continuation of the effort to encourage intra-Africa and regional business collaboration, it was an eye-opener in terms of business opportunities in the industry. He said: “Personally, I give credit to local investors trying to develop beautiful things out of Africa. Because I am from Nigeria and I see a great improvement. The last time I was in Ghana was like 13 years ago. So, I have seen a lot of improvements coming this way, I was wondering where are we going to? But coming into this place, I see beautiful the work the investors have done here and it is only nice if we can help them market it.”

Mustapha said the retreat has offered the NANTA executive the opportunity to widen their horizon towards the region’s tourism and partnership with operators in Ghana and other places: “And when the idea came up, it was, overwhelmingly, accepted by all the executives to explore this beautiful place that we are in as part of expanding our horizon in terms regional tourism.”

He said the exposure has also helped the executive  members rub minds and come up with ideas that would move the association forward: “This executives’ retreat and the new initiative in partnership with Safari World is of great help to us. We have held some import discussions undisturbed.

“We used to hold our meetings in Nigeria. However, like I said, when the idea came, there was a unity of acceptance. So, I believe that camaraderie and the kind of the mindset that we came into this place will actually help us to push forward our agenda.  What we are trying to do is to just shape out what we’re going to do as an association to help our members grow in their businesses and to also show the travel industry in a greater and better light. So, that’s the idea of coming for this retreat, so that we’ll be able to work for our people.”

The National Executive Council of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) is currently in Ghana on a seven-day retreat and familiarisation (Fam) trip to Safari World.

Receiving the NANTA delegation Safari World Homes, Accra, the Chairman of the Safari World chain Mr. Ernest Gyekye, expressed expressed his happiness with the visit. He promised that the NANTA excos would have an unforgettable experience during the one week stay.

The retreat and Fam trip, according to the NANTA President, Mr. Yinka Folami, is part of the efforts to build greater partnership and working relationship across Africa.
He said the mission is not a leisure trip, but a deliberate step to implement and expand the association’s marketing advocacy for brands across the borders.
Folami explained further: “Nigeria and Ghana share history, culture, trade and people, and hence, the future of our tourism cannot be built in silos.
“This retreat is about moving from policy to practice — creating real products, real partnerships, and real movement of travelers between Accra and Lagos.”

The NANTA excos will use the platform to hold strategic meetings with their Ghanaian counterparts, visit key tourism sites the Safari World, and participate in cultural exchange activities.

The excos will also visit Safari World’s three destinations in Accra, Ada and Dawu, experiencing hospitality, wildlife adventure, eco-tourism, marine recreation, dining and lifestyle offerings.

Operating under the promise, “One World, Three Destinations, Over 20 Unique Experiences,” Safari World is leveraging on the visit to strengthen its presence in the Nigerian travel market while positioning Ghana as a leading destination for leisure, group travel, conferences, family holidays and premium tourism experiences.

The itinerary includes a stay at Safari Homes in Accra, a riverfront experience at Aqua Safari in Ada, the Safari Island Cruise, Safari Eco Park, Safari Nautica, Safari Recreation & Sports and a comprehensive familiarisation tour of Safari Valley Eco Resort in Dawu.

A major highlight will be the Executive Dinner on 21st July at Safari Valley Eco Resort, bringing together key tourism stakeholders with a shared vision of advancing Ghana’s tourism industry.

The familiarisation visit is expected to provide NANTA’s leadership with first-hand knowledge of Safari World’s tourism products while fostering stronger travel packages and partnerships for Nigerian travellers.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Olorogun Festus Keyamo will be conferred with ‘Special Award for Excellence in Aviation and National Connectivity’ at the 2026 National Tourism and Transportation Summit and Expo (NTTS) scheduled for the 27th and 28th July in Abuja at the Nicon Luxury Hotel. The minister has accepted the award and confirmed his attendance.

This year’s theme ‘Tourism and Transportation:Building Connectivity and Mobility for Sustainable Development’ seeks to continue to explore the different aspects and areas the tourism and transportation connect to build a more viral national tourism and transportation industry. 

The NTTS, now in its 9th edition, has created a platform for key decision-makers in the tourism and transportation value chain to come together and discuss key issues to help drive the industry forward. It is also an opportunity to work with the relevant industry associations, key players, companies, organisations, parastatals, agencies and ministries. It is rated as the”foremost” gathering in terms of both content and networking for combined tourism and transportation, the event has provided a space to discuss important topics based on new and developing paths towards the future.

The Chairman of the Tourism Sector Skills Council of Nigeria (TSSCN) and Special Adviser to the Akwa Ibom State Governor on Tourism, Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, has called on tour operators in to imbibe the culture of responsible tourism while building Nigeria as a tourist destination. Onung gave this advice while speaking at the 10^th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) in Lagos.

Onung, who is also the Board of Trustees (BoT) chairman of the NATOP,  told the tour operators that they are the backbone of the tourism value chain who serve as the bridge between the traveller and the destination, and as such, are ambassadors of Nigeria, urging them to curate experiences that leave pleasant and lasting  memories in the minds of tourists.

Speaking on the theme of the AGM “Unlocking Nigeria’s Tourism Potential: Strengthening Tour Operators for Sustainable”, the TSSCN chairman advised the tour operators: “Tour operators are the backbone of the tourism value chain. We are the bridge between the traveller and the destination. We curate experiences, manage logistics, ensure safety, and create memories. More importantly, we are ambassadors of our nation.

 “As we gather here today, I urge every member to reflect on the critical role we play. The quality of our services, the professionalism of our operations, and our commitment to sustainability will determine whether Nigeria becomes a preferred tourist destination or remains a footnote in global tourism conversations.

“We must move beyond transactional relationships and embrace a long-term vision that prioritizes destination stewardship, community engagement, and environmental responsibility.”

Onung, who is the immediate President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), also  drew the attention of tourism stakeholders to the current efforts of the Akwa Ibom State government to develop tourism in the state with describing the Arise Palm Resort. He described the resort  as one of Nigeria’s biggest tourism project and  is scheduled for commissioning in September by the State  Governor, Pastor Umo Eno.

Onung said the landmark project will redefine leisure, hospitality and conference tourism in Nigeria and the West African sub-region. He spoke further: “In the coming months, precisely in September as announced by the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, the world-class Arise Palm Resort will be commissioned. This 70-hectare luxury tourism and hospitality hub, located in Uyo, is a remarkable transformation of a reclaimed gully erosion site into a masterpiece of modern tourism infrastructure. The resort features an artificial lake with floating bars, a 9-hole golf course, a 1,500-capacity banquet hall, luxury villas, and world-class sports complexes.

“For us as tour operators, this presents another significant opportunity – a new destination to package, promote, and integrate into our tour offerings. I encourage every member to visit, explore, and position your businesses to benefit from this landmark development.”

He stressed that Nigeria possesses all the ingredients of a leading global tourism destination but has continued to under-perform because of fragmented efforts across the industry.

“Africa has recorded one of the fastest tourism recovery rates in recent years, yet Nigeria has not fully translated its rich cultural heritage, diverse attractions and warm hospitality into sustainable growth,” he said.

“The challenge is not a lack of demand. Nigeria has demand in abundance. The real issue is orchestration. We must move beyond fragmented travel experiences and build a unified tourism product capable of competing globally.”

By Frank Meke

It is with a heavy heart that I write this piece—a careful and timely reminder that the once vibrant and inspiring Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) is gradually slipping into irrelevance.

This month marks one year since the federation changed leadership, a transition that many had hoped would sustain industry visibility, acceptance, empowerment, and socio-economic relevance.

Founded several decades ago, the federation was seeded under the interim leadership of the late Teresa Ezeobi, the first female President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), and later nurtured by Goddie Ibru, its first substantive president. Through the years, FTAN has experienced both commendable and disappointing leadership eras.

Until the emergence of Nkereuwem Onung, the federation had often been administered by individuals whose ideas deviated from the founding vision and objectives of the organisation. Sadly, we appear to have returned to a place many believed we had left behind—a period marked by stagnation, limited innovation, and a lack of transformative leadership.

Many expected a new era defined by strategic thinking, institutional growth, and stakeholder-driven development. Instead, what we are witnessing is an unsettling display of noise, confusion, and leadership inadequacy.

Rather than demonstrating grace, competence, and vision, the current leadership seems consumed by the pursuit of validation, comparisons, and self-congratulation. It is steadily positioning itself on the wrong side of history while members of the federation, once fiercely independent and vocal, now appear resigned to silence.

Today, FTAN has become an epicentre of avoidable conflicts. It quarrels with virtually every institution or initiative within its sight. Its capacity for unification and sectoral growth has been replaced by a troubling inclination toward division, confrontation, and resistance to tourism reforms.

Within just one year, the federation has eroded many of the modest gains recorded in previous years. It has failed to properly interpret, articulate, and reposition the value of culture and tourism to a nation that desperately needs a deeper understanding of the sector’s economic potential.

The federation, once respected for bringing together diverse stakeholders, has now become a promoter of endless boxing matches—acting simultaneously as contestant, referee, spectator, and judge. Unsurprisingly, many sponsors and development partners have distanced themselves from this culture of perpetual conflict. The only visible ally it appears to retain is the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, who seems more tolerant of its excesses than genuinely aligned with them.

We used to have respected elders in this industry—experienced, accomplished, and humble leaders whose interventions commanded respect. Where are those elders today? What has become of those who conceal mischief behind the guise of support and create factions while pretending to serve the collective interest of the industry?

Some of these elders, dressed in flowing Agbada and clothed in the appearance of wisdom, hide behind influence and symbolism to encourage division and mob-style reactions.

What exactly has this leadership achieved in one year? Where is its impact? Where is its visibility? Where is its contribution to the advancement of tourism in Nigeria?

If there is one phrase that accurately captures the federation’s performance so far, it is this: ‘letter writing.’

Unfortunately, FTAN has institutionalised incompetence and failed to present any coherent reform agenda. It lacks strategic intelligence and has elevated reactionary mob tactics above constructive engagement, negotiation, and policy intervention.

The National Bureau of Statistics remains one of the most important platforms through which the economic contributions of tourism can be properly documented and recognised. Yet a federation that appears uncomfortable with professionalism, research, and capacity development cannot effectively advocate for the industry’s place in national planning. Consequently, tourism continues to suffer from inadequate budgetary recognition despite its immense potential for job creation and economic growth.

A national stakeholders’ meeting is scheduled to hold in Abuja next Wednesday. Yet what is the federation’s response?

Instead of constructive engagement, we are witnessing what resembles a Benito Mussolini-style approach to leadership—an attempt to oppose virtually every government reform while simultaneously expecting government officials to validate such opposition.

No policy or reform is perfect. However, responsible organisations approach policy disagreements with open-mindedness, patriotism, and a willingness to engage. Governments operate within established legal and administrative frameworks, and reforms are often improved through dialogue rather than hostility.

The campaign to abolish both the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) and the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) regulatory frameworks over perceived overlaps reflects a poor understanding of governance and legislative realities.

A closer examination of Nigeria’s institutional landscape reveals numerous cases of overlapping mandates and conflicting laws. Addressing such challenges requires patience, strategic lobbying, stakeholder engagement, and legislative advocacy—not threats of boycotts and public grandstanding.

Attempts to direct or pressure members of a federated organisation to boycott a lawful stakeholders’ engagement amount to little more than chasing shadows. Independent member associations should be free to attend, contribute, and express their views without coercion.

In my view, the federation has lost focus regarding the NIHOTOUR regulatory initiative. Rather than facilitating informed debate, it appears more interested in confrontation than solutions.

Meanwhile, serious issues affecting tourism and hospitality continue to receive little or no attention from the federation.

In Kebbi State and other parts of northern Nigeria, there have been reports of state-backed enforcement actions targeting hotels and hospitality establishments, including the arrest of guests over alleged violations of religious codes. One would expect a federation with a national mandate to engage such matters robustly, given their implications for tourism development and investment confidence. Yet the silence has been deafening.

The federation has also failed to take a meaningful position on the burden of multiple taxation affecting tourism and hospitality businesses. It has not effectively engaged relevant federal and state agencies to pursue tax harmonisation or advocate for a more business-friendly operating environment.

Workshops, seminars, policy dialogues, and industry consultations have become increasingly rare. Yet declarations of conflict and battle lines emerge with remarkable speed, often without broad stakeholder consultation.

For these reasons, I intend to pay closer attention to the affairs of this federation and speak more openly when necessary. Many of us have invested time, energy, and goodwill into its growth and advancement. What we are witnessing today is not what we envisioned.

As a stakeholder, I encourage others within the tourism industry to speak up. When positive changes occur, they deserve support and recognition. However, the federation’s current posture is neither productive nor sustainable, and I will continue to oppose it where necessary.

Enough of the mob mentality. Enough of the politics of division. Enough of the needless confrontations that distract from the real work of building a thriving tourism industry.

This is Nigeria. No union, association, or federation is bigger than the country.

Enough!