The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture has partnered with SON and FTAN to enforce both International and National Standards in Nigeria’s tourism Sector.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka at the Standardisation Conference for Tourism and Related Services held recently at the Eko Hotel and Suites on Friday.
She stated that this can only be achieved through collaborative efforts, hence the need for all stakeholders – government agencies, industry players, academia, and international bodies – to work hand in hand towards implementing international best practices and setting new benchmarks of success.
The Commissioner, represented by the Permanent Secretary for Tourism, Arts and Culture, informed of the need for a collaborative exercise to bring about positivity in the hospitality sector.
Benson-Awoyinka also reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Lagos State Government to supporting initiatives that promote standardisation and excellence in tourism and hospitality-related services.
The Commissioner further stated that Standardisation plays a pivotal role in ensuring quality, consistency, and competitiveness within the tourism and hospitality sector, therefore, it is the cornerstone upon which our industry can thrive on a global stage, offering unparalleled experiences to travellers while upholding the highest standards of service delivery.
The Director General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunomso Okeke remarked that in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Agenda on renewed hope for Nigerians, it is important to redefine the direction to ensure that tourism and hospitality businesses in Nigeria are made acceptable to all markets both locally and internationally.
Dr. Okeke said that SON is collaborating with the Lagos State Government and FTAN to implement existing international and national standards on Hotel Services Requirements and Hotels and Services Accommodation Management System and Rating.
Also, speaking at the conference, the president of FTAN, Mr. Nkerewem Onung appreciated SON for the initiative, adding that the private sector is ready to work with Govt at all levels.
He posited that given the importance of Tourism, SON needs to appeal to all State Governors on the need to register all hotels in their state as it will benefit both the state and the business owners, noting that until there is a collaborative effort the standard being targeted will not be attainable he said
Also present at the conference were representatives of different tourism bodies like the ANJET and NANTA, amongst many others.
