NIHOTOUR heads to Appeal Court over Lagos ruling, vows to defend training mandate
Maureen Aguta
The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has vowed to challenge a reported judgment of the Federal High Court in Lagos in a suit instituted by the Hotel Owners and Managers Association of Lagos (HOMAL), insisting that it remains committed to upholding professional standards in Nigeria’s hospitality, travel and tourism industry.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, October 15, 2026, the institute said it would obtain a certified true copy of the judgment and consult its legal advisers on the appropriate appellate process.
NIHOTOUR said it remained determined to defend its statutory mandate while promoting professional training, recognised qualifications and workforce development across the country’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
Describing the dispute as one with implications beyond the parties involved, the institute said the outcome could influence the future of professional development, workforce competence and Nigeria’s competitiveness as a tourism destination.
According to NIHOTOUR, building a globally competitive hospitality industry requires sustained investment in the skills and competence of workers responsible for delivering services to visitors and customers.
It maintained that professional training and continuous development should not be viewed as burdens on businesses but as investments capable of improving service delivery, strengthening consumer confidence and enhancing the reputation of Nigeria’s tourism destinations.
The institute, however, acknowledged the legitimate interests of hotel owners and operators, particularly in protecting jobs, attracting investment and sustaining a viable business environment.
It argued that these interests should not be regarded as incompatible with professional development and the maintenance of appropriate industry standards.
On the legal implications of the judgment, NIHOTOUR said it would carefully examine the court’s decision and pursue the options available to it under the law.
The institute also stressed that it would comply with applicable court orders while the legal process continued, guided by the advice of its legal team.
It called for regulatory disagreements to be resolved through lawful processes and constructive engagement among relevant federal and state institutions.
According to the institute, a clear and workable regulatory framework is essential to promoting professional development, respecting lawful jurisdiction and supporting sustainable growth in the hospitality and tourism industry.
NIHOTOUR said its reform agenda was ultimately focused on equipping Nigerian workers with recognised skills, helping businesses secure competent personnel, assuring investors of reliable service standards and improving visitors’ experiences.
It added 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.
The institute said it would provide further updates as the legal process progressed.