The Oyo State Government has partnered with the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) to clamp down on unregistered and fraudulent travel operators in the state.
This was announced during a press conference held at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Ibadan.
Speaking at the event, NANTA’s Deputy Vice President, Dr. Olatokunbo Dagunduro, commended the Oyo State Government for its commitment to repositioning the travel and tourism sector. He also praised the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, for his dedication and support in improving the industry.
NANTA, the umbrella body for all registered travel agencies in Nigeria, expressed concerns over the rising number of illegal operators in the state. Dr. Dagunduro warned that fraudulent travel agents were exploiting unsuspecting travelers, undermining the integrity of the industry, and posing security risks.
To address the situation, the Oyo State Government and NANTA have resolved to enforce stricter regulations to ensure compliance. The initiative will include a statewide sensitization campaign, the creation of a government database for all registered travel agencies, and strict penalties for defaulters.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, stressed the importance of proper registration for travel agencies, stating that the exercise is aimed at sanitizing the industry and ensuring security.
“To restore order in the sector, the government, in collaboration with NANTA, will embark on a statewide registration exercise for all travel and tour operators,” he said.
He further explained that the database would serve as a verification tool for travelers and law enforcement agencies, making it easier to identify licensed operators and eliminate fraudulent ones.
“A one month sensitization campaign will commence next Monday, after which full enforcement will begin. Any travel agency that fails to comply within the given period will face sanctions,” Dr. Olatubosun added.
The press conference was attended by NANTA executives, directors and deputy directors from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, as well as other key stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry.
