Professor Wasiu Babalola, a professor of hotel management, forensic accounting and audit was today, August 9, in Lagos elected to chair Standards Organisation of Nigeria’s (SON) National Technical Committee on Tourism and Related Services. Key roles of the committee include: to identify the standards the tourism industry needs; participate fully in their development, and also champion their implementation.
Speaking during the inauguration, the Director General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyichukwu Nonso Okeke, represented by Engr. (Dr) Lekan Omoniyi, acknowledged the Standardisation Conference for Tourism in Lagos and other joint initiatives between SON and the tourism industry laid the groundwork for the takeoff of the National Technical Committee on Tourism and Related Services. He said tourism is not just about leisure or travel, but also storytelling. His words: “It is the story we tell the world about who we are, our identity, our culture, our spirit. It is the heartbeat of our heritage, the rhythm of our festivals, the warmth of our hospitality, and the beauty of our diverse landscapes. Across the world, nations have discovered the transformative power of tourism. It creates jobs, attracts investment, empowers communities, and opens the gates of cultural diplomacy. And yet, all this is only possible when there is trust—trust in the quality, safety, and professionalism of the services a nation provides. That trust is built on one word: standards.”
The director general went further to point out the necessity and importance of standards in the hospitality and tourism industry: “Without standards, there is no assurance. Without assurance, there is no confidence. And without confidence, there is no growth. Nigeria is a country rich in natural wonders and cultural treasures, from the majestic Zuma Rock to the vibrant Osun-Osogbo Festival, from the tranquility of the Obudu Mountain Resort to the bustling energy of Lagos nightlife. We are not lacking in attractions. What we must now perfect is our delivery. And that is where the SON comes in.
“As the nation’s custodian of quality, SON is entrusted with the responsibility to develop, promote, and implement national standards that uplift the quality of life and the competitiveness of our industries—including tourism and its related services. But we know that the most relevant, impactful standards are not written by bureaucrats in boardrooms. They are born out of collaboration with those who live the realities of the industry every day, that is, you. This national technical committee is not ceremonial. It is a living and functional foundation. And its success rests on three critical responsibilities that I urge each of you to take to heart.”
“You have been chosen to be torchbearers for a tourism sector that has the potential to transform our economy, enrich our people, and reposition Nigeria on the global map. Your work will play a crucial role in driving progress and contributing to the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-point agenda, particularly in areas such as economic diversification, job creation, and infrastructure development. As you establish national standards for the tourism sector, you will be defining the future of our industry. You will determine how our hotels are run, how our tours are delivered, how our heritage is preserved, and how the world experiences Nigeria. When these standards are adopted and implemented, they will bring about improvement and excellence, ultimately benefiting our businesses, youths, and the nation as a whole,” Dr. Okeke added.
Mrs. Kehinde Daniel will serve as the deputy chairmen of the committee.
