Tourism Stakeholders Endorse NSQF, Push for Enhanced Skills Council Capacity

Nigeria’s approach to skills transfer is undergoing a significant transformation, moving from traditional informal apprenticeships to the structured National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF). 

Stakeholders view this evolution on October 5 as a critical national shift aimed at fostering economic growth, empowering youth, and building a formidable workforce for the future.

Championing this change within the travel and tourism sector is Dr. Abisoye Fagade, the Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR). He has welcomed the commitment of industry stakeholders to skills development, pledging that NIHOTOUR, as the national Sector Skills Council, will lead initiatives to professionalise the industry and elevate its standards.

Dr. Fagade emphasised that practical skills are far more critical than mere academic qualifications, especially within the hospitality value chain. He argued that equipping young people with employable skills is a powerful tool to steer them away from social vices, thereby strengthening national security and addressing pressing issues such as unemployment, poverty, and social instability.

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This skills-first agenda received a significant boost last year when the Head of Service of the Federation issued a circular approving the inclusion of National Skills Qualification (NSQ) Levels 1–6 in the public service Scheme of Service. This policy officially acknowledges that individuals trained in any skill area are employable and can be placed in salary grades that correspond to their certified competencies.

The NIHOTOUR DG explained that the system is based on National Occupational Standards (NOS), which clearly outline the skills and performance needed for specific jobs. T

his structure reinforces the vital roles of the Sector Skills Council (SSC) and Awarding Bodies (ABs) in workforce development. Coordinated by NIHOTOUR since its establishment in 2015, the Hospitality and Tourism Sector Skills Council of Nigeria (HTSSON) is tasked with engaging employers to identify skills gaps and implement these national standards.

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has developed and approved 12 key occupational standards so far. These include areas such as airport and passenger service operations, event handling, food preparation, food and beverage service, housekeeping operations, tour operations, and travel agency operations.

Dr. Fagade stressed that the system’s effectiveness relies on strong collaboration between the NBTE, which approves the standards, and the awarding body, which develops the qualifications. He noted that awarding bodies do more than issue certificates; they are custodians of quality, ensuring that training meets the dynamic demands of the labour market.

Fagade stated that strengthening the SSC through robust institutional support, strong industry linkages, and continuous capacity building would maximise its impact. He added that the Awarding Body must ensure its credibility through global benchmarking and digital innovation.

Analysts believe this focus on skills could empower Nigeria with a highly adaptable and entrepreneurial workforce capable of competing in a dynamic global economy, ultimately reducing unemployment and driving national development. Achieving this, however, is a collective responsibility.

“Sustained investment in skills development is not just an educational cost but a strategic national investment, a pathway to dignity, productivity, and prosperity for all Nigerians,” he stressed.

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Frequently Asked Questions & Answers (FAQs)

What is the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF)?

The NSQF is a structured system designed to replace traditional, informal apprenticeships in Nigeria. It provides formal qualifications based on National Occupational Standards (NOS), ensuring that individuals are trained to meet specific industry requirements for employability and job readiness.

Why is NIHOTOUR promoting skills over academic certificates?

Dr. Abisoye Fagade, the DG of NIHOTOUR, believes that practical, employable skills are more valuable in the hospitality industry. He argues that this focus helps reduce unemployment and social vices, thereby improving national security and economic stability.

How is the Nigerian government supporting this skills initiative?

The government has shown its support through a circular from the Head of Service of the Federation, which incorporates National Skills Qualification (NSQ) Levels 1–6 into the public service Scheme of Service. This enables skilled individuals to be employed in the public sector at salary grades commensurate with their certified competence.

What are some of the key areas that the new skills standards in the hospitality sector cover?

The new standards cover 12 key areas, including airport and passenger service operations, Event Handling, Food Preparation and Service, Housekeeping, Tour Operations, and Travel Agency Operations.