LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORKS FOR THE REGULATION OF THE NIGERIAN HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM INDUSTRY

Abstract

The Nigerian tourism and hospitality sector is a viable and versatile industry that is capable of turning the fortunes of the country around in terms of revenue generation. However, the potentials in the sector have been grossly underutilized due to varied factors such as underinvestment, insecurity of lives and properties, environmental degradation, regulatory shortcomings. This paper discussed the challenges inhibiting the development of the sector, the legal and institutional framework regulating the industry, and proffer suggestions for enhancing the regulatory framework for better productivity and earnings in the sector. The study utilised the doctrinal approach; making use of primary and secondary sources of information. It was discovered that the tourism and hospitality potentials of the country are numerous, but the identified challenges such as insecurity need to be addressed to make the country a safe and attractive tourist destination.