The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has announced plans to challenge a reported judgment of the Federal High Court in Lagos in a suit filed by the Hotel Owners and Managers Association of Lagos (HOMAL) against the institute and other defendants.
In a statement issued on Thursday, NIHOTOUR said it would obtain a certified true copy of the judgment and consult its legal advisers before proceeding with 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.
It maintained that the issues arising from the case extend beyond a disagreement between institutions, arguing that the outcome has implications for professional training, workforce competence and Nigeria’s ambition to strengthen its position as a competitive tourism destination.
NIHOTOUR Defends Professional Training and Certification
According to the institute, developing a globally competitive hospitality industry requires sustained investment in the skills and competence of workers responsible for delivering services to visitors and customers.
It argued 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 said the need to protect business interests should not be considered incompatible with efforts to improve professional standards across the industry.
The institute also acknowledged the interests of hotel owners and operators, including the need to protect jobs, attract investment and maintain a viable business environment.
It stressed that these objectives could coexist with appropriate professional development and standards, suggesting that the industry’s long-term growth depends on a balance between commercial interests and workforce competence.
Institute to Follow Legal Process
NIHOTOUR said it would carefully review the court’s decision and pursue available legal options, while complying with applicable court orders and acting on the advice of its legal team as the matter progresses.
The institute did not provide details of the judgment or specify the legal grounds on which it intends to challenge the decision.
It also called for differences concerning regulatory authority to be resolved through the law and constructive engagement among the relevant federal and state institutions.
According to NIHOTOUR, a clear and workable regulatory framework is necessary to support professional development, respect lawful jurisdiction and encourage sustainable growth across the hospitality and tourism industry.
Focus on Workforce Development and Industry Growth
The institute said its reform agenda centres on improving the capabilities of Nigerian hospitality and tourism professionals, strengthening service delivery and supporting businesses that depend on skilled personnel.
It identified workers seeking recognised skills, entrepreneurs requiring competent employees, investors expecting reliable service standards and visitors whose experiences influence Nigeria’s reputation as key stakeholders in the debate.
NIHOTOUR maintained that the legal challenge would not diminish the importance of developing a skilled workforce and building a stronger hospitality and tourism industry.
The institute said it would provide further updates as the legal process progresses.
The outcome of the case could have implications for the relationship between professional training requirements, regulatory authority and the operating environment for hospitality businesses in Lagos and beyond. However, the precise implications will depend on the court’s ruling and any subsequent appellate decision.
