The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has concluded arrangements for the inauguration of the Governing Board of the Hospitality and Tourism Sector Skills Council of Nigeria (HTSCCN) as the host of the Council, and in line with its mandate as a regulatory body for professional training, practices and certification in the sector.
Briefing Media crew Unit of the Institute in his office, the Director General (DG) of NIHOTOUR, Alhaji Sani Kangiwa, said inauguration of the Governing Board of the Council became imperative to enable the Council commence the discharge of its duties and responsibilities in piloting the growth and development of the hospitality and tourism industry of the country via capacity building and professional skill development.
This, he said, is in line with demand needs of the industry as empowered by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and approved and directed by the National Executive Council.
Kangiwa explained that the Council’s roles and responsibilities are stipulated to carry out employer-led engagements that take cognizance of the active involvement and participation of the Organized Private Sector in the industry comprising trade unions, professional bodies, Skills and workforce development institutions as well as critical stake-holders.
He said the activities of the Council is expected to influence training needs and delivery in the country, positing that this will go a long way in reducing demand skills gaps and manpower shortage that has been the bane of development in the sector.
The DG noted that the Sector Skills Council will also among other benefits bring about increase in opportunities for all individuals in the workforce as well as create a Labour Market Information System (LMIS) that will assist planning and delivery of training and thus, achieve improved and enhanced productivity.
According to him, the inauguration which is scheduled to hold at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja on Thursday 25th March, 2021, will be performed by the Honourable Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed under the strict observance of the COVID-19 non-pharmaceutical guidelines and protocols, adding that participation of stakeholders of the industry in the event will be via zoom meeting.