The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has taken a significant step towards enhancing bilateral relations between Nigeria and South Africa in hospitality, tourism, and cultural exchange.
This follows a strategic visit by Professor Bobby J. Monroe, Consul General of the Republic of South Africa in Lagos, to NIHOTOUR headquarters in Abuja, where he engaged with the Director General/CEO of NIHOTOUR, Aare (Dr.) Abisoye Fagade, FIMC, to explore deeper collaborations between both nations.
During the meeting, Aare Abisoye Fagade underscored the importance of leveraging Nigeria’s thriving tourism sector and vibrant hospitality industry, particularly highlighted by the recent surge in Lagos’ Detty December festivities, to enhance security perceptions and promote peaceful coexistence. He emphasized that a robust cultural and training exchange between Nigeria and South Africa could help address xenophobia and strengthen mutual relations.
“Tourism is not just about travel and hospitality; it is a bridge that connects cultures, fosters understanding, and drives economic growth. Through structured training, knowledge exchange, and mutual collaboration, we can dispel misconceptions, improve security narratives, and build a future where Nigerians and South Africans see each other as partners, not rivals,” he stated.
Key Areas of Collaboration:
1. Hospitality & Tourism Training Exchange – Strengthening capacity building through joint training programs and certification initiatives between NIHOTOUR and South African institutions.
2. Cultural Diplomacy– Promoting stronger people-to-people connections and combating stereotypes through cultural tourism initiatives.
3. Security and Perception Management – Showcasing Nigeria’s ongoing improvements in tourism security to attract South African tourists and investors.
4. Joint Tourism Development Projects – Encouraging cross-border investments in hospitality and tourism infrastructure.
Professor Monroe reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to collaborating with NIHOTOUR, emphasizing the need for African nations to unite through tourism and leverage cultural diversity for economic prosperity.
NIHOTOUR remains dedicated to positioning Nigeria as a leader in tourism education, regulation, and sustainable development while fostering international partnerships that drive growth in the sector.
Both parties resolved to vigorously pursue the opportunities presented by this collaboration between NIHOTOUR and the South African mission in Nigeria.
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