By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) have strengthened their partnership to enhance consumer protection, improve service standards and promote sustainable tourism development across Nigeria.
The renewed commitment was reaffirmed on Tuesday in Abuja when the Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, Dr. Ola Awakan, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello, at the Commission’s headquarters.
Speaking during the meeting, Bello described tourism as a critical component of Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda and stressed the importance of developing a strong tourism culture capable of unlocking the sector’s immense potential.
He noted that while tourism remains a shared responsibility between the Federal Government and state governments, the NTDA plays a pivotal role in providing strategic direction and setting standards that can enhance confidence among local and international tourists.
Bello emphasized that visitors’ experiences begin from the moment they arrive in the country, calling for stronger collaboration among airport authorities, immigration, customs and other key stakeholders to ensure seamless and memorable experiences for tourists.
“The experience tourists receive upon arrival and throughout their stay determines whether they will return and whether they will recommend Nigeria to others. Every stakeholder must therefore play a role in creating a welcoming and efficient tourism ecosystem,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring fair treatment across the tourism value chain, adding that the FCCPC would continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to uphold service standards and address consumer complaints.
Earlier, Dr. Awakan said the visit was aimed at formally introducing himself and exploring areas of cooperation between the two agencies.
He described tourism as one of Nigeria’s most valuable yet underutilised economic assets and a vital tool for driving economic diversification under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to him, the Authority is implementing a series of initiatives to reposition the sector, including reforms in the hospitality industry and tour-guiding profession, the establishment of tourism information desks at airports and measures to encourage greater private sector participation in tourism projects.
Dr. Awakan also disclosed plans to leverage storytelling as a tool for promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage and tourism attractions, including the proposed establishment of Africa’s first tourism-focused streaming platform.
Commending the FCCPC for its efforts in promoting fair market practices and consumer rights, he expressed the Authority’s readiness to work closely with the Commission to improve service delivery and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s tourism ecosystem.
In recognition of his support for tourism development initiatives, Dr. Awakan designated Bello as a Nigerian Tourism Ambassador and expressed confidence that the FCCPC would continue to support efforts aimed at advancing tourism and improving service standards nationwide.
Both agencies agreed to sustain close collaboration in pursuit of higher service standards, stronger consumer protection and the positioning of tourism as a key driver of economic growth and national development.
