Nigeria has attracted huge investments from big European, African brands in tourism sector – SON D-G

The Director-General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, has said that some of the big brands in the tourism and hospitality industry in Europe and Africa have invested heavily in the Nigerian sector.
Speaking at the standardisation conference organised by SON for tourism and related services industry on Friday in Lagos, Dr Okeke said that some of these foreign companies had gone as far as acquiring leading international brands in the hospitality sector to make their businesses the preferred destinations and big competitors.
“It is important to mention that some investors come to Nigeria because they are aware that Nigerian tourism market is open and has less competition in the aspect of quality.
“Nigeria has what any country needs to boost its economy in tourism. We have unique tourist sites, rich culture and population,” he said.
According to him, Nigerian tourism experts participate actively in national, regional and international tourism standardisation activities.
“Their contributions in the development of ISO Standards for accommodation, restaurants and adventure tourism, are still appreciated by the international standards community,” he said.
Speaking on the theme of the conference, “Implementing International Best Practices in Hospitality Businesses”, Dr. Okeke said that standardisation was important in strengthening quality in tourism businesses in Nigeria.
He disclosed that SON is partnering with the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) and the Lagos State Government to implement standardisation in hotel services across the state.
According to Dr. Okeke, it has become necessary to redefine the direction of tourism in Nigeria to ensure that Nigerian tourism businesses are acceptable to both local and international markets.
“Today, SON is collaborating with private sector umbrella body, FTAN and Lagos state government authorities to implement existing international and national standards.
“These are: NIS ISO 22483:2021- hotels service requirements and NIS 489:2020- hotels and serviced accommodation management system and rating, requirements and guidance for use.
“These are built into a certification scheme to carry out certification of hospitality establishments within Nigeria.
“SON certification will ensure international best practices in the different tourism business operations.
“In hospitality establishments, it will steer up the zeal for hospitality businesses to adequately train their staff and ensure consistence in their service delivery,” he said.
He assured that SON’s certification will add value to the hospitality establishments as well as assist them to compete globally, improve reputation, increase confidence of employers and employees as well as their earning power
Dr. Okeke stated that tourism is one of the largest employers of labour in Nigeria and that it is capable of gainfully engaging the youths to increase the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
In her speech at the conference, the Lagos state Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka,Earlier, underscored the importance of standardisation in the tourism industry.
Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka, who was represented by Mrs. Oloruntoyin Atekoja, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, stated that standardisation plays a pivotal role in ensuring quality, consistency and competitiveness within the tourism and hospitality sectors.
She explained that standardisation remains the cornerstone upon which the tourism industry can thrive on the global stage.
“Embracing international best practices not only elevates our offerings but also strengthens our position as a premier destination for travellers seeking unforgettable experiences.
“While we acknowledge the challenges in meeting international standards, we also recognise the immense opportunities that standardisation brings for growth, innovation and sustainable development within our industry.
“Let me reaffirm the unwavering commitment of the Lagos state government in supporting initiatives that promote standardisation and excellence in tourism and hospitality related services.
“It is in line with this standardisation that the ministry is currently digitizing its hotel licensing processes and other regulatory activities,” she said.
GIK/APA