Nigeria’s Hospitality Council Chair Hails ITF Takeover of Skills Councils, Says It Will Boost Tourism Workforce

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Chairman of the Hospitality and Tourism Sector Skills Council of Nigeria, Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, has applauded President Bola Tinubu for the transfer of Nigeria’s Sector Skills Councils to the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), saying it will strengthen workforce development, improve industry standards and accelerate the growth of the country’s tourism sector,

Onung, who spoke with our correspondent in Uyo on Wednesday, described the development as a major policy milestone that would reposition Nigeria’s skills ecosystem by ensuring that training programmes are directly linked to the realities and demands of the labour market.

According to him, the new arrangement would create stronger partnerships between government, private sector operators and training institutions, leading to the production of a more competent workforce for critical sectors of the economy, especially hospitality and tourism.

“The transfer of the Sector Skills Councils to the ITF is a welcome development. It will strengthen industry participation in skills development and produce a workforce that is better equipped for the realities of the hospitality and tourism sector,” Onung said.

He noted that Nigeria’s tourism potential could only be fully harnessed when supported by skilled professionals capable of delivering services that meet international standards.

Onung, who also serves as Honorary Special Adviser to the Akwa Ibom State Governor on Culture and Tourism and Chairman of Experience Ibom, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for placing greater emphasis on practical skills acquisition, industry certification and workforce development.

He said the reforms would help address the gap between academic training and workplace requirements, while creating opportunities for young Nigerians seeking employment and entrepreneurship pathways within the tourism value chain.

“The future of Nigeria’s tourism industry depends largely on the quality of people driving it. A skilled workforce will improve service delivery, attract investment and enhance our competitiveness globally,” he added.

The tourism sector leader also acknowledged the contributions of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), under the leadership of its Director-General, Dr. Abisoye Fagade, for its role in strengthening the Hospitality and Tourism Sector Skills Council and promoting capacity development in the industry.

The Sector Skills Councils are saddled with developing National Occupational Standards, identifying industry skills requirements, and ensuring quality assurance in skills training. The transfer to the ITF is expected to strengthen industry-led training and build a workforce capable of supporting Nigeria’s economic growth.