The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has called for mutual understanding and professionalism during its ongoing compliance and standardisation enforcement activities across Nigeria.
This follows a recent altercation involving a hotel staff and a law enforcement officer from the institute at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.
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In a statement issued on Thursday in Lagos by NIHOTOUR’s Director-General, Dr Abisoye Fagade, the Director of Inspection and Enforcement, Mr Chike Ukuekwe, described the incident as unfortunate and avoidable.
According to Ukuekwe, the incident escalated when a hotel employee allegedly assaulted a NIHOTOUR enforcement officer, damaging his uniform. The officer, in reaction to the provocation, reportedly retaliated with a slap.
“While the incident is regrettable and avoidable, it serves as a sober reminder of the importance of composure, clarity and professionalism during such exercises,” Ukuekwe stated.
He stressed that NIHOTOUR’s mandate centres on collaboration, capacity building and stakeholder engagement, rather than confrontation.
Ukuekwe appealed to practitioners in the hospitality and tourism industry to refrain from aggressive or combative behaviour during enforcement visits.
“Our collective mission is the upliftment of Nigeria’s hospitality, tourism and travel sectors through standardisation and compliance,” he said. “These exercises are not meant to antagonise operators but to align practices with national expectations and global standards.”
He also commended businesses that have embraced the compliance drive with openness and cooperation, urging others to adopt dialogue as a means of resolving concerns.
To prevent future misunderstandings, Ukuekwe said NIHOTOUR was reviewing its communication protocols and enhancing field preparedness to ensure clearer engagement with stakeholders.
NIHOTOUR has embarked on a statewide compliance exercise targeting hotels, restaurants and businesses within the travel, tourism and hospitality sectors.
