From Okwe Obi, Abuja
Executive Director, International Hospitality, Tourism and Eco-Sustainability Forum, Chibuikem Diala, has identified poor management, regulation, financial challenges and rating as some of the snags plaguing the hospitality sector.
Diala stated this at the 8th International Hospitality, Tourism and Ecosystem Forum (IHTEF), in Abuja on Monday.
According to him, the government should also help with a level playing ground, while developing human capital.
He said: “First of all I don’t want to start with funding. I think one of these is human capital.
“Secondly is the right kind of remuneration is also a problem. Now let me now go back to funding and investments. The right kind of investment, the kind of mix of investment.
“And then the government also needs to help with level playing ground. Much more is the fact that we need to also develop the human capital. Because it’s very important.”
Beyond the snags, Diala said the organisation would continue formulate ideas to develop the secor in “Nigeria and Africa to be better.”
“The sector’s growth potential is substantial, driven by a surge in domestic tourism and increasing business travel,” he added.
He clarified that the ratings of hotels was to give guests preference or choices,.adding that, “it makes it easier for people to be able to work in those places and get results.”
Also, the Group General Managing of Abuja Continental Hotel, Karla Hala, emphasised the importance of training and mentoring young Nigerians to provide exceptional service and leadership in the hospitality industry.
He suggested key initiatives to support the development of world-class hospitality talent, including: mentorship programmes: pairing young professionals with experienced industry experts, training academies: providing comprehensive training in hospitality skills, Skill Acceleration Programs: Enhancing skills and knowledge in specific areas.
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