HATMAN Conference 2025: Policy inconsistency, infrastructure deficit, lack of sectoral coordination hampering growth of tourism, says Managwu

As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu looks to grow Nigerian tourism sector through its Renewed Hope Agenda, the President of the Hospitality and Tourism Management Association of Nigeria (HATMAN), Dr (Mrs) Lilian Managwu has disclosed that this can only materialise if the challenges of policy inconsistency, infrastructure deficit and lack of coordination among sub-sectors are urgently addressed.

 

Managwu made this disclosure at the opening of the 19^th Annual International Conference of HATMAN 2025 ongoing in Kano. According to her, ‘‘our conference every year serves as a platform for thought, leadership, professional exchange and strategic engagement and also provides an avenue for the transformation of ideas into actionable policies and innovations.’’

Speaking on the theme of the conference; Tourism Development: Sub sectorial Policies, Politics and Strategies for Inclusiveness,’’ which she said it is very timely and relevant, she decried the lack of progress in the sector, saying, ‘‘despite our rich natural attractions, diverse culture and human resources, our industry continues to face challenges of policies inconsistency, infrastructure deficit and lack of coordination among sub sectors.

‘‘The reality is that tourism cannot function effectively in silos, All forms of stakeholders – hospitality sectors, transport services, travel agencies, tour operators and local/host communities must see themselves as critical components of the same value chain.

‘‘For our industry to thrive, all stakeholders must not only co-exist but must collaborate under a well-structured and inclusive policy framework.’’ To this end, she called on the stakeholders and relevant government Ministries, Developments and Agencies to have a sit at the table to discuss on the reality of the moment and evolve politics and policies that will serve the people’s interest and not personal interest.

According to her, ‘‘the 19^th annual conference provides us with the opportunity to interrogate these issues. Later today, we will be listening to our distinguished speakers and panelists who will dissect the interplay between policy, politics, and inclusiveness in tourism development.

‘‘I believe their presentations will help us explore models that work, identify gaps that hinder growth and build strategies that can help our country position tourism as a cornerstone of economic and social transformation.’’

Managwu charged her members to be committed to the ideas and tenets of HATMAN, stressing, ‘‘as HATMAN, our mission remains clear; to be the professional voice and moral compass for hospitality and tourism management in Nigeria, advocating for excellence, ethical practice and continuous professional development.’’