NIHOTOUR to Challenge Lagos Court Ruling, Reaffirms Commitment to Tourism Standards
The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has announced plans to challenge the reported judgment of the Federal High Court in Lagos in a suit instituted by the Hotel Owners and Managers Association of Lagos (HOMAL) against the institute and other defendants.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, October 15, 2026, NIHOTOUR said it would obtain a certified true copy of the judgment and consult its legal advisers on the appropriate appellate process.
The institute reaffirmed its commitment to defending its statutory mandate and promoting professional standards across Nigeria’s hospitality, travel and tourism sectors.
According to NIHOTOUR, the case extends beyond an institutional disagreement, raising broader questions about professional development, workforce competence and the standards required to strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness as a hospitality and tourism destination.
The institute maintained that a globally competitive hospitality industry requires sustained investment in the skills and competence of its workforce.
It stressed that professional training, recognised qualifications and continuous development should be viewed as investments in employees, businesses, consumer confidence and the long-term reputation of Nigeria’s tourism destinations.
NIHOTOUR also acknowledged the legitimate interests of hotel owners and operators, particularly in protecting jobs, attracting investment and maintaining a viable business environment.
It, however, argued that these objectives should not be considered incompatible with professional development and the maintenance of appropriate industry standards.
The institute said it would carefully review the judgment and pursue available legal options while complying with applicable court orders and acting on the advice of its legal team.
It further called for differences over regulatory authority to be resolved through legal processes and constructive engagement among relevant federal and state institutions.
According to the institute, the goal should be to establish a clear and workable regulatory framework that promotes professional development, respects lawful jurisdiction and supports the sustainable growth of the hospitality and tourism industry.
Describing its reform agenda as people-centred, NIHOTOUR said its efforts were aimed at ensuring that Nigerian workers acquire recognised skills, businesses have access to competent personnel, investors benefit from reliable service standards and visitors enjoy experiences that strengthen the country’s reputation.
The institute noted that although the legal challenge might require a reassessment of its approach, it would not diminish the importance of building a skilled workforce and strengthening Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry.
NIHOTOUR assured stakeholders that it would provide further updates as the legal process progresses.
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