The Oyo State Government has pledged stronger collaboration with the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) to regulate and sanitise travel and tourism operations within the State.
Wasiu Olatunbosun, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, speaking at NANTA’s monthly meeting, stressed the need to remove unregistered and non-compliant operators in the industry, stating that the Ministry is fully committed to cleansing the hospitality and tourism sector to ensure standardisation and professionalism.
He noted that sensitisation efforts for travel Agencies in the State had already made a significant impact.
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The Commissioner further revealed plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Education to revive entertainment activities in schools as a means of discovering and nurturing young talents.
Olatunbosun clarified that the effort would also include educating students on the difference between culture and religion.
He reiterated that the State’s tourism framework is being properly structured, with the Oyo State Tourism Board managing hospitality businesses while the Ministry of Culture and Tourism oversees all tourist sites.
The legal responsibilities of both the Ministry and industry Associations are now clearly defined.
He, however, explained that tourism remains a key pillar in Governor Seyi Makinde’s Roadmap for Accelerated Development 2023–2027.
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Babatunde Adesokan, Vice President of NANTA, in his remarks, expressed appreciation to the State Government for initiating regulatory measures aimed at eliminating fraudulent practices and supporting legitimate travel Agencies.
He noted that standardising operations would help grow the sector and enhance revenue generation through the issuance of tourism operation certificates.
Olajide Sarayi, a member of NANTA’s Board of Trustees, also speaking, commended the Government’s commitment, urging media houses to verify the credentials of individuals and businesses seeking advertisements, ensuring they are certified NANTA members.
