NIHOTOUR urges calm after encountering resistance during Lagos exercise
A routine compliance exercise by the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, turned tense at Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, after a confrontation broke out between a hotel staff member and a police officer attached to the inspection team.
The incident escalated when a hotel staff physically confronted and forcibly stripped the law enforcement officer of his uniform, leaving him in only his trousers. In response, the visibly agitated officer slapped the staff member in the face.
Although the situation was isolated, NIHOTOUR described the altercation as regrettable and avoidable. The Institute stressed that its standardization mission is rooted in collaboration and constructive engagement, not hostility.
Barrister Chike Ukuekwe, Director of Inspection and Enforcement at NIHOTOUR, appealed to hospitality operators to maintain professionalism during such visits. He emphasized that compliance exercises are critical to aligning industry practices with national and global standards.
“Our goal is not to antagonize but to elevate the hospitality and tourism sectors,” Ukuekwe said. “We commend hotels such as Eko Hotel, Sojourner Hotel, Marriot Hotel, Radisson Blu, Black Diamond Hotel, and Four Points By Sheraton for their cooperation and professionalism.”
He noted that most establishments visited during the exercise resolved compliance issues on-site, with management promising to meet required standards within seven days.
NIHOTOUR reaffirmed its commitment to building a safe and professional environment across the hospitality and tourism industry. The agency said national compliance drives are essential to promoting quality, ethical standards, and service excellence.
Looking ahead, the Institute plans to strengthen communication and field protocols to ensure smoother engagements and mutual respect during future inspections.
