Ejiro Efenudu
The President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), Mr. Yinka Folami, has called for urgent reforms and stronger protections in Nigeria’s travel industry. Speaking on Creative Naija, a popular program on Mainland FM 98.3, Folami highlighted critical challenges facing the sector, including cross-border trade abuse, dollar-denominated ticketing, visa racketeering, and domestic airline disruptions.
With unwavering clarity, Folami described cross-border trading—the direct sale of travel products by foreign operators to Nigerian consumers—as the “greatest infidelity and a sin against the local market.” He accused global travel merchants of undermining Nigeria’s travel industry by bypassing licensed local agents, leading to job losses, capital flight, and reduced control over market operations.
He praised British Airways for updating its systems to enforce the Point of Commencement (POC) standard, which prioritizes local agents and helps reduce cross-border violations. Folami urged other airlines to emulate such responsible practices to protect local businesses and the national economy.
Dollar-Denominated Ticketing: “A Direct Affront to Our Sovereignty”
Turning to the contentious issue of dollar-only ticket sales by some foreign airlines, Folami did not hold back. He said the practice was “a direct affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty,” as it shuts out over 70% of local agents and devalues the Naira. With the recent improvements in Nigeria’s foreign exchange liquidity and market transparency led by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Folami argued that the justification for such practices has collapsed.
“At least accommodate the Naira,” he urged the airlines, highlighting the need for inclusivity and fair business terms.
Folami expressed confidence in the CBN’s ongoing reforms and reaffirmed NANTA’s readiness to support government efforts in fostering economic growth and market stability.
Visa Racketeering and Public Awareness
On the growing concern of visa racketeering, Folami called for public vigilance. He emphasized that licensed travel agents are not authorized to guarantee visa approvals, describing such promises as fraudulent. He encouraged Nigerians to avoid unauthorized individuals and called for investigations by anti-corruption bodies.
To bolster public trust, Folami revealed that NANTA has launched a new member verification portal, distributed unique ID cards to its members, and restructured its constitution. A major highlight was the upcoming transformation of NANTA’s training programs into a certified NANTA Training Institute, aimed at building professional capacity and standardizing practices across the travel sector.
Domestic Flight Disruptions: A Shared Responsibility
Folami also addressed frequent cancellations and delays by local airlines. He stressed that such disruptions are damaging to all stakeholders and emphasized a shared responsibility among regulators, airlines, agents, and travelers.
“No airline benefits from poor service or delays,” he said, urging collective efforts to address the root causes and improve the travel experience.
Commitment To A Stronger Future
Wrapping up his appearance on Creative Naija, Folami reaffirmed NANTA’s commitment to collaboration, ethical standards, and institutional growth. He pointed to the association’s reviewed constitution, continued stakeholder engagement, and the roll-out of accredited training programs as proof of NANTA’s long-term vision.
“Africa is the future, and Nigeria will drive it,” he concluded confidently.
